^ 


m 


m 


THE 

WILLIAM  R.  PERKINS 

LIBRARY 

OF 
DUKE  UNIVERSITY 


Rare  Books 


THE 


HAND-BOOK 


OF 


ARTILLERY. 


BY  CAPT.  JOSEPH  ROBERTS, 

Fourth  Regt.  Artillery  U.  S.  Army. 


^o^  RICHMOND: 

PRINTED   BY   RITCHIE   &   DUNNAVANT. 
1861. 


THE 


HAND-BOOK 


OF 


ARTILLERY. 


BY  CAPT.  JOSEPH  ROBERTS, 

Fourth  Regt.  Artilleiy  U.  S.  Army. 


RICHMOND: 

FEINTED    BY  KITCHIE   &   DUNNAVANT. 
1861. 


Digitized  by  tine  Internet  Arciiive 
in  2010  witii  funding  from 
Duke  University  Libraries 


littp://www.arcliive.org/details/liandbookofartillOOrobe 


^3V 


PROCEEDINaS 


The  following  Eeport  was  made  by  the  Committee  ap- 
pointed at  a  meeting  of  the  staflf  of  the  Artillery  School  at 
Fort  Monroe,  Va.,  to  whom  the  commanding  officer  of  the 
School  had  referred  this  work : 

Your  Committee  to  which  has  been  referred  the  considera- 
tion of  the  work  of  Captain  Roberts,  proposed  as  a  text-book 
for  the  Artillery  School,  beg  leave  to  submit  the  following 
Report,  viz : 

The  work  submitted  by  Captain  Roberts,  and  entitled 
"Hand-book  of  Artillery,"  embraces  sections  on  the  follow- 
ing subjects. 

[For  subjects  see  Table  of  Contents,  page  7.] 

Under  each  of  these  heads,  except  the  last,  the  work  con- 
tains a  number  of  questions  and  answers.  Your  Committee 
have  carefully  examined  each  of  these  questions  and  their 
corresponding  answers,  and  find  that  the  answers  have  been 
principally  drawn  from  the  following  sources,  viz  :  Gibbon's 
Artillerist's  Manual,  Light  and  Hea\7  Artillery  Tactics,  and 
the  Ordnance  Manual,  all  of  which  works  have  been  autho- 
rized by  the  War  Department.  Wherever  the  prescribed 
authorities  furnish  the  means  of  answering  the  questions, 
they  appear  to  have  been  followed  as  closely  as  possible. 

The  idea  of  the  arrangement,  and  a  few  of  the  questions 
and  answers,  appear  to  have  been  taken  from  "Burns'  Ques- 


4  PROCEEDINGS. 

tions  and  Answers  on  Artillery ;"  but  that  work  has  been  so 
far  deviated  from,  as  fairly  to  entitle  the  present  work  to  be 
considered  as  an  original  compilation. 

In  the  opinion  of  your  Committee,  the  arrangement  of  the 
f?ubjects  and  the  selection  of  the  several  questions  and  an- 
swers have  been  judicious.  The  work  is  one  which  may  be 
advantageously  used  for  reference  by  the  officers,  and  is  ad- 
mirably adapted  to  the  instruction  of  non-commissioned 
officers  and  privates  of  Artillery. 

Your  Committee  do  therefore  recommend  that  it  be  substi- 
tuted as  a  text-book  in  place  of  "  Burns'  Questions  and  An- 
swers on  Artillery." 

(Signed)  I.  VOGDES, 

Capt.  1st  Art'y. 

(Signed)  E.  0.  C  ORD, 

Capt.  3d  Art'y. 

(Signed)  J.  A.  HASKIN, 

BvT.  Maj.  and  Capt.  1st  Art'y. 

The  preceding  Report  was  adopted,  and  the  Staff  recom- 
mended this  work  as  a  book  of  instruction  at  the  Artilleiy 
School,  in  lieu  of  "  Burns'  Questions  and  Answers  on  Ar- 
tillery." 


PREFACE. 


The  following  compilation  originated  in  an  attempt  to 
adapt  Lieut.  Col.  Burns'  "  Questions  and  Answers  on  Artil- 
lery" to  the  United  States  service.  The  British  Artillery 
being  very  different  from  ours,  it  was  found  necessary  to 
omit  many  of  Burns'  questions,  and  to  introduce  others. 

The  compiler  is  under  great  obligations  to  several  of  his 
brother  officers  at  Fort  Monroe  (especially  to  Major  Haskin, 
1st  Artillery),  for  their  kindness  in  assisting  him  in  the  com- 
pilation of  this  little  volume,  and  for  important  suggestions 
in  the  revision  of  many  of  the  ''answers." 

Fort  Monroe,  Va.,  1860. 


CONTENTS. 


1^*  The  pages  refer  to  the  figures  in  the  margin  of  the  text. 


Page. 

Preface, 

5 

General  Table  of  Contents,        .            .            .            . 

7 

Part  I.,  Section  1.  On  Ai-tillery  in  General,     - 

9 

i 

'        2.  On  Guns,    .            -           .           . 

.      26 

<<            ( 

'        3.  On  Howitzers, 

-      28 

" 

'        4.  On  Columbiads, 

-      30 

«            < 

*        5.  On  Mortars, 

-      31 

" 

6.  On  Sea-coast  Artillery, 

.      35 

"            ' 

7.  Siege  Ai-tillery, 

-      36 

tt            ( 

8.  Field  Guns  and  Field  Batteries,     ■ 

-      40 

Part  II.    ' 

'        1.  Pointing  Guns  and  Howitzers, 

-      51 

((            < 

*        2.  Pointing  Mortars,    - 

-      56 

Part  III.  Charges,        .... 

-      60 

IV.  Ranges, 

-      63 

V.  Eicocliet,        .... 

-      73 

YI.  Eecoil, 

-      77 

VII.  Windage,        .... 

-      80 

VIII.  Gunpowder, 

.      83 

IX.  Projectiles, 

-      90 

X.  Laboratory  Stores,     ... 

-    109 

XI.  Platfoi-ms,       .... 

-    118 

XII.  Ai-tillery  Carriages  and  Machines, 

-    123 

XIII.  Practical  Gunnery,     - 

-     147 

XIV.  Miscellaneous, 

-     151 

Appendix— Rifle  Cannon, 

-     163 

Index, 

-    169 

THE 


HAND-BOOK  OF  ARTILLERY, 


PAET  I.     SECTION  I. 


ARTILLERY  IN  GENERAL. 

1.  What  is  understood  by  the  term  Artillery  ? 
Heavy  fire-arms  of  every  description. 

2.  How  many  kinds  of  Artillery  are  employed  in  the  land 
service  of  the  United  States  ? 

Four,  viz. :   Guns,  Howitzers,  Columhiads,  and  Mortars. 

3.  How  are  these  pieces  distinguished  ? 

According  to  their  use  as  Sea-coast,  Garrison,  Siege,  and 
Field  Artillery. 

4.  What  metals  are  used  in  the  construction  of  Artillery  ? 
All  heavy  artillery,  such  as  that  for  sea-coast,  siege,  and 

garrison  equipment,  is  made  of  iron ;  and  that  for  field  service, 

,Q-|  of  bronze. 

.    -^       5.   What  is  bronze  for  cannon  ? 

Au  ALLOY  consisting  of  90  parts  of  copper  and  10  of  tin, 
allowing  a  variation  of  one  part  of  tin  more  or  less.  It  is 
commonly  called  brass. 

6.  Why  is  bronze  used  in  preference  to  iron,  for  field 
pieces  ? 

Tliis  metal,  having  greater  tenacity  and  strength  than  iron, 
the  pieces  can  be  made  lighter. 

7.  In  what  respect  does  iron  merit  a  preference  ? 

1* 


10  PIAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

Iron  is  less  expensive  than  bronze,  and  is  more  capable  of 
sustaining  long-continued  firing  with  larger  charges;  such 
pieces  are,  therefore,  better  calculated  for  the  constant  heavy 
firing  of  sieges. 

Note. — In  the  sieges  in  Spain,  bronze  guns  could  never  support 
a  heavier  fire  than  120  rounds  in  twenty-four  hours,  and  -were  never 
used  to  batter  at  distauces  exceeding  300  yards ;  ■whereas,  "with 
iron  guns,  three  times  that  number  of  rounds  were  fired  with  efi'ect, 
from  three  times  the  distance,  for  several  consecutive  days,  without 
any  otlier  injury  than  tlie  enlargement  of  their  vents.  The  com- 
parative power  of  conducting  heat  in  iron  and  copper  being  respec- 
tively as  3.743  to  8.932,  taking  gold  at  10.000,  it  is  evident  that  in 
practicing  with  iron  and  bronze  pieces  of  the  same  calibre,  it  Avould 
soon  become  necessary  to  reduce  the  charges  in  the  bronze  pieces, 
and,  also  to  increase  the  time  between  the  discharges,  to  prevent 
their  softening  and  drooping;  wdiile  with  iron,  full  charges  and 
rajiid  firing  ma}'  be  kept  up. 

8.  What  additional  objection  has  been  urged  to  bronze  for 
cannon  ? 

The  difficulty  of  forming  a  perfect  alloy,  in  consequence 
of  the  difference  of  fusibility  of  tin  and  copper. 

9.  What  iron  pieces  are  used  in  the  laud  service  ? 
12,13,  and  24-pdr.  siege  and  garrison  guns,  32  and  r-... 

42-pdr.  sea-coast  guns,  8-in.  siege  and  24-pdr.  garrison  '- 
howitzers,  8  and   10-in.    sea-coast  howitzers,  8  and   10-in. 
columbiads,  8  and  10-in.  siege,  and  10  and  13-in.  sea-coast 
mortars. 

Note. — The  24-pdr.  eprouvette  is  also  of  iron,  and  used  for  the 
proof  of  powder. 

10.  What  are  the  kinds  of  bronze  pieces  in  use  at  present? 
6  and  12-pdr.  field  guns ;  12-pdr.  mountain  howitzer  ;  12, 

24  and  32-pdr.  field  howitzers ;  stone  and  24-pdr.  Coehorn 
mortars. 

11.  What  is  a  battery? 

This  term  is  applied  to  one  or  more  pieces,  or  to  the  place 
where  they  are  served. 

12.  What  regulate  the  dimensions  of  cannon  ? 

The  tenacity  and  elasticity  of  the  metals  emploj'ed  in  their 
fabrication.  Their  thickness  must  be  proportioned  to  the 
effect  developed  by  the  powder;  and  the  length  is  determined 


ARTILLERY   IN    GENERAL.  11 

by  experiment,  and  should  not  exceed  24  calibres.  The  ex- 
terior surface  of  a  cannon  is  composed  of  several  surfaces, 
more  or  less  inclined  to  the  axis  of  the  bore,  the  forms  of 
which  have  been  determined  by  experiment. 

13.  Why  is  a  piece  made  stronger  near  the  breech  than 
towards  the  muzzle  ? 

Because  the  elastic  force  of  the  inflamed  gunpowder  is 
there  greatest,  constantly  diminishing  in  intensity  as  the 
space  increases  in  which  it  acts. 

14.  What  is  the  length  of  a  piece  ? 

The  distance  from  the  rear  of  the  base-ring  to  the  face  of 
the  piece. 

15.  What  is  the  extreme  length  ? 

jQ-i       From  the  rear  of  the  cascable  to  the  face. 

^       16.  What  is  the  bore  of  a  piece  ? 

It  includes  the  part  bored  out,  viz  :  the  cylinder,  the  cham- 
ber (if  there  is  one),  and  the  conical  or  spherical  surface  con- 
necting them. 

17.  What  is  understood  by  the  calibre  of  a  piece  ? 
The  diameter  of  the  bore. 

18.  How  do  you  ascertain  the  number  of  calibres  in  a 
piece  ? 

Divide  the  length  of  the  cylinder,  in  inches,  by  the  num- 
ber of  inches  in  the  calibre. 

19.  The  number  of  calibres  being  known,  how  do  you  jBnd 
the  lengtli  of  the  cylinder  ? 

Multiply  the  number  of  calibres  by  the  calibre  in  inches. 

20.  What  is  meant  by  the  sights  of  a  piece  ? 

Artificial  marks  on  the  piece  for  determining  the  line  of 
fire. 

21.  How  are  the  sights  determined  ? 

Usually  by  means  of  the  gunner's  level,  when  the  trun- 
nions are  perfectly  horizontal. 

22.  What  is  the  line  of  metal  or  the  natural  line  of  sight? 
It  is  a  line  drawn  from  the  highest  point  of  the  base-ring 

to  the  highest  point  on  the  swell  of  the  muzzle. 

23.  What  is  the  axis  of  a  piece  ? 

An  imaginary  line  passing  through  the  centre  of  the  bore. 

24.  What  is 'the  natural  angle  of  sight? 

It  is  the  angle  which  the  natural  line  of  sight  makes  with 
the  axis  of  the  piece. 


12  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

25.  What  is  the  dispart  of  a  piece  ? 

It  is  the  difference  of  the  semi-tliaraeter  of  the  hase-  r^rj 
ring  and  the  swell  of  the  muzzle,  or  the  muzzle-band.  '- 
It  is,  therefore,  the  tangent  of  the  natural  angle  of  sight  to  a 
radius  equal  to  the  distance  from  the  rear  of  the  base-ring  to 
the  highest  point  of  the  sv,ell  of  the  muzzle,  or  the  front  of 
the  muzzle-band,  as  the  case  may  be,  measured  parallel  to 
the  axis. 

26.  Give  the  nomenclature  of  a  piece  1 

The  CASCABLE  is  the  part  of  the  gun  in  rear  of  the  base- 
ring,  and  is  composed  generally  of  the  knob,  the  ^lec/c,  the 
jilleU  and  the  hase  of  the  breech. 

The  BASE  OF  THE  BREECH  is  a  frustum  of  a  cone,  or  a 
spherical  segment  in  rear  of  the  breech. 

The  base-einCt  is  a  projecting  band  of  metal  adjoining  the 
base  of  the  breech,  and  connected  with  the  body  of  the  gun 
by  a  concave  moulding. 

The  breech  is  the  mass  of  solid  metal  behind  the  bottom 
of  the  bore,  extending  to  the  rear  of  the  base-ring. 

The  REINFORCE  is  the  thickest  part  of  the  body  of  the  gun, 
in  front  of  the  breech ;  if  there  be  more  than  one  reinforce, 
that  which  is  next  the  breech  is  called  thefrst  reinforce;  the 
other  the  second  reinforce. 

The  REINFORCE  BAND  is  at  the  junction  of  the  first  and 
second  reinforces  in  the  heavy  howitzers  and  columbiads. 

The  CHASE  is  the  conical  part  of  the  gun  in  front  of  the 
reinforce. 

The  ASTRAGAL  AND  FILLETS  in  field  guus,  and  the  chase 
ring  in  other  pieces,  are  the  mouldings  at  the  front  end  of 
the  chase. 

The  NECK  is  the  smallest  part  of  the  piece  in  front  r-,, 
of  the  astragal  or  the  chase  ring.  '- 

The  sw^ELL  OF  THE  MUZZLE  is  the  largest  part  of  gun  in 
front  of  the  neck.  It  is  terminated  by  the  muzzle  mould- 
ings., which  in  field  and  siege  guns,  consist  of  the  lij^  and 
fillet.  In  sea-coast  guns  and  heavy  howitzers  and  colum- 
biads, there  is  no  fillet.  In  field  and  siege  howitzers,  and  in 
mortars,  a  muzzle-band  takes  the  place  of  the  swell  of  the 
muzzle. 

The  FACE  of  the  piece  is  the  terminating  plane  perpendi- 
cular to  the  axis  of  the  bore. 


ARTILLERY    IN    GENERAL.  13 

The  TRUNNIONS  are  cylinders,  the  axes  of  which  are  in  a 
line  perpendicular  to  the  axis  of  the  bore,  and  in  the  same 
plane  with  that  axis. 

The  EiMBASES  are  short  cylinders  uniting  the  trunnions 
with  the  body  of  the  gun.  The  ends  of  the  rimbases,  or  the 
shoulders  of  \\ie  trunnions,  are  planes  perpendicular  to  the 
axis  of  the  trunnions. 

The  BORE  of  the  piece  includes  all  the  part  bored  out, 
viz. :  the  cj'linder,  the  chamber  (if  there  is  one),  and  the  co- 
nical or  spherical  surface  connecting  them. 

Tlie  CHAMBER  in  howitzers,  columbiads,  and  mortars,  is 
the  smallest  part  of  the  bore,  and  contains  the  charge  of 
powder.  In  the  howitzers  and  columbiads,*  the  chamber  is 
cylindrical ;  and  is  united  with  the  large  cylinder  of  the  bore 
by  a  conical  surface ;  the  angles  of  intersection  of  this  coni- 
cal surface  with  the  cylinders  of  the  bore  and  chamber,  are 
rounded  (in  profile)  by  arcs  of  circles.  In  the  8-inch  siege 
1  r-i  howitzer,  the  chamber  is  united  with  the  cylinder  of  the 

-I  bore  by  a  spherical  surface,  in  order  that  the  shell  may 
when  necessary,  be  inserted  without  a  sabot. 

The  BOTTOM  OF  THE  BORE  (to  facihtatc  sponging)  is  a 
plane  perpendicular  to  the  axis,  united  with  the  sides  (in 
profile)  by  an  arc  of  a  circle  the  radius  of  which  is  one-fourth 
of  the  diameter  of  the  bore  at  the  bottom.  In  the  colum- 
biads, the  heavy  sea-coast  mortars,  stone  mortar,  and  eprou- 
vette,  the  bottom  of  the  bore  is  hemispherical. 

The  MUZZLE,  or  mouth  of  the  bore,  is  chamfered  to  a  depth 
of  0.15  inch  to  0.5  inch  (varying  with  the  size  of  the  bore), 
in  order  to  prevent  abrasion,  and  to  facilitate  loading. 

The  TRUE  WINDAGE  is  the  difference  between  the  true 
diameters  of  the  bore  and  of  the  ball. 

27.   What  is  the  vent  ? 

The  aperture  through  which  fire  is  communicated  to  the 
charge. 

28".  What  is  to  be  observed  in  reference  to  the  diameter  of 
the  vent  ? 

It  should  be  as  small  as  the  use  of  the  priming  wire  and 
tube  will  allow. 

29.   Why? 

*  The  new  coliunbiad  is  mado  witlimil  a  oliamb^-. 


14  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

As  the  velocity  of  the  gases  arising  from  the  combustion 
of  the  powder  is  extremelj'  great,  a  large  amount  escapes 
through  the  vent,  wliicli  contributes  nothing  to  the  velocity 
of  the  projectile.  It  therefore  follows,  that  the  cftect  pro- 
duced by  a  given  charge  will  diminish  as  the  diameter  of  the 
vent  increases.  Besides,  on  account  of  the  increase  of  power 
in  tlie  current  that  escapes  from  them,  large  vents  are  more 
rapidl}'  injured  than  small  ones. 

30.   Wiiat  is  tlie  diameter  of  the  vent  ?  r-.g 

0.2  of  an  inch  in  all  pieces  except  the  eprouvette,  in  ^ 
which  it  is  0.1. 

.31.   What  is  the  position  of  the  axis  of  the  vent? 

The  axis  of  the  vent,  is  in  a  plane  passing  through  the  axis 
of  the  bore,  perpendicular  to  the  axis  of  the  trunnions.  In 
guns,  and  in  howitzers  having  cylindrical  chambers,  the  vent 
is  placed  at  an  angle  of  80^  with  the  axis  of  the  bore,  and  it 
enters  the  bore  at  a  distance  from  the  ])ottom  equal  to  one- 
fourth  the  diameter  of  the  bore.  As  this  inclination  renders 
it  easy  to  pull  the  friction  tube  out  of  the  vent,  that  of  the 
new  i2-pdr.  field  gun,  and  the  new  columbiads  has  been 
placed  perpendicular  to  the  axis. 

32.  What  are  the  quarter-sights  of  a  piece  ? 
Divisions  marked  on  the  upper  quarters  of  the  base  ring, 

commencing  where  it  would  be  intersected  by  a  plane  parallel 
to  the  axis  of  the  piece,  and  tangent  to  the  upper  surface  of 
the  trunnions. 

Note. — Not  used  in  our  service. 

33.  To  what  use  are  the  quarter-sights  applied  ? 

For  giving  elevations  up  to  three  degrees  but  especially  for 
pointing  a  piece  at  a  less  elevation  than  the  natural  angle  of 
sight. 

34.  What  is  a  breech-sight  ? 

An  instrument  having  a  graduated  scale  of  tangents,  by 
means  of  which  any  elevation  may  be  given  to  a  piece. 

35.  How  are  the  divisions  of  the  tangent  scale  found  ? 
By  taking  the  length  of  the  piece,  from  the  rear  of  the 

base-ring  to  the  swell  of  the  muzzle,  measured  on  a  line 
parallel  to  the  axis,  and  nmltiplying  it  by  the  natural  p^~ 
tangent  of  as  many  degrees  as  may  be  required ;  and  '- 
then  deduct  the  dispart.     Thus,  for  5^  elevation,  and  the 


ARTILLERY    IN    GENERAL.  15 

gun  supposed  to  be  5  feet,  or  60  inches  long,  multiply  .08748, 
which  is  the  natural  tangent  of  5°,  by  60 ;  the  product  gives 
5.2488  inches;  supposing  the  dispart  to  be  1  inch,  the  gradu- 
ating of  the  tangent  scale  will  be  4.2488  inches. 

36.  With  what  pieces  are  breech-sights  used  ? 
Guns  and  howitzers. 

37.  What  is  a  2^^ndulum  hausse  ? 

It  is  a  tangent-scale,  the  graduations  of  which  are  the  tan- 
gents of  each  quarter  of  a  degree  of  elevation,  to  a  radius 
equal  to  the  distance  between  the  muzzle-sight  of  the  piece, 
and  the  axis  of  vibration  of  the  hausse,  which  is  one  inch  in 
rear  of  the  base-ring.  At  the  lower  end  of  the  scale  is  a 
brass  bulb  filled  with  lead.  The  slider  which  marks  the  di- 
visions on  the  scale  is  of  thin  brass,  and  is  clamped  at  any 
desired  division  on  the  scale  by  means  of  a  screw.  The 
scale  passes  through  a  slit  in  a  piece  of  steel,  with  which  it 
is  connected  by  a  screw,  forming  a  pivot  on  which  the  scale 
can  vibrate  laterally.  This  piece  of  steel  terminates  in 
pivots,  by  means  of  which  the  pendulum  is  supported  on  the 
seat  attached  to  the  gun,  and  is  at  liberty  to  vibrate  in  the 
direction  of  the  axis  of  the  piece.  The  scat  is  of  metal,  and 
is  fastened  to  the  base  of  the  breech  by  screws,  so  that  the 
centres  of  the  steel  pivots  of  vibration  shall  be  at  a  distance 
from  the  axis  of  the  piece  equal  to  the  radius  of  the  base- 
ring. 

A  MUZZLE-SIGHT  of  irou  is  screwed  into  the  swell  of  the 
-|Q1  muzzle,of  guns,  or  into  the  middle  of  the  muzzle-ring  of 

-'  howitzers.  The  height  of  this  sight  is  equal  to  the  dis- 
part of  the  piece,  so  that  a  line  joining  the  muzzle-sight  and 
the  pivot  of  the  tangent-scale  is  parallel  to  the  axis  of  the 
piece. 

38.  What  is  a  guiuier'' s-leveU  or  gunner's  perpendicular? 
An  instrument  made  of  sheet-brass  ;  the  lower  part  is  cut 

in  the  form  of  a  crescent,  the  points  of  which  are  made  of 
steel;  a  small  spirit-level  is  fastened  to  one  side  of  the  plate, 
parallel  to  the  line  joining  the  points  of  the  crescent,  and  a 
slider  is  fastened  to  the  same  side  of  the  plate,  perpendicular 
to  the  axis  of  the  level. 

39.  What  is  it  used  for  ? 

To  mark  the  points  of  sight  on  pieces. 

40.  What  is  a  plummet  ? 


16  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

A  simple  line  and  hoh  for  pointing  mortars. 

41.  What  is  a  gunners  quadrant? 

It  is  a  graduated  quarter  of  a  circle  of  sliect-brass,  attached 
to  a  brass  rule  18  inches  long.  It  has  a  vernier  turning  on 
a  pivot,  to  -svhich  is  attached  a  spirit-level.  To  get  a  reqiiired 
elevation,  the  vernier  is  fixed  at  the  indicated  degree,  the 
brass  rule  is  then  inserted  in  the  bore  parallel  to  the  axis  of 
the  piece ;  the  gun  is  then  elevated  or  depressed  until  the 
level  is  horizontal. 

There  is  another  gi-aduated  (juadrant  of  wood,  of  6  inches 
radius,  attached  to  a  rule  23.5  inches  long.  It  has  a  phnnb- 
line  and  hoh,  Tvliich  are  carried,  when  not  in  use,  in  a  hole  in 
the  end  of  tlie  rule,  covered  by  a  brass  plate. 

42.  What  is  an  elevating  arc,  and  its  use  ? 

It  is  an  arc  attached  to  the  rear  part  of  the  cheek  of  a 
gun-carriage,  having  its  centre  in  the  axis  of  the  trun-  r^^ 
nions ;  the  arc  is  graduated  into  degrees  and  parts  of  a  ^' ' 
degree.  Jjj  placing  the  axis  of  tlie  piece  horizontal,  and 
marking  the  breech  at  any  one  of  the  divisions  on  the  arc, 
any  elevation  or  depression  required  will  be  noted  by  the 
number  of  degrees  below  or  above  this  mark.  It  turns  on  a 
pivot  which  admits  of  the  arc,  when  not  in  use,  being  placed 
inside  the  cheek  to  which  it  is  attached. 

43.  Wliat  is  the  use  of  the  knob  of  the  cascable  ? 

To  facilitate  the  handling  of  the  piece  in  mounting  and 
dismounting  it,  and  moving  it  when  otf  its  carriage. 

44.  Of  what  use  are  the  trunnions  of  a  piece  y 

By  means  of  them  the  piece  is  attached  to  its  carriage ; 
and  by  being  placed  near  the  centre  of  gravity,  it  is  easily 
elevated  or  depressed. 

45.  What  are  the  dolphins  of  a  piece  ? 

Two  handles  placed  upon  the  piece  with  their  centres  over 
the  centre  of  gravity,  by  which  it  is  mounted  or  dismounted. 

4G.  Are  all  pieces  provided  with  dolphins  ? 

Only  the  12-pdr.  brass  guns,  and  the  24  and  32-pdr.  brass 
howitzers. 

47.  What  is  understood  by  the  preponderance  of  a  piece  ? 

It  is  the  excess  of  weight  of  the  part  in  rear  of  the  trun- 
nions over  that  in  front ;  it  is  measured  by  the  weight  which 
it  is  necessary  to  apply  in  tlie  plane  of  the  muzzle  to  balance 
the  gun  when  suspended  freely  on  the  axis  of  the  trunnions. 


20] 


ARTILLERY   IN   GENERAL.  17 

48.  Why  is  this  preponderance  given  ? 
To  prevent  the  sudden  dipping  of  the  muzzle,  in  firing, 
and  violent  concussion  on  the  carriage  at  the  breech. 
49.  What  is  bushing  a  piece  of  artillery  ? 
Inserting  a  piece  of  metal  about  an  inch  in  diameter  (near 
the  bottom  of  the  bore),  through  the  centre  of  which  the 
vent  has  been  previously  drilled.     It  is  screwed  in. 

50.  What  kind  of  metal  is  used  for  bushing  bronze  pieces  ? 
Pure  copper  always,  which  is  not  so  liable  to  run  from  heat 

as  gun  metal. 

51.  What  is  the  object  of  bushing  a  piece  ? 

To  prevent  deterioration  of  the  vent,  or  provide  a  new  one 
when  this  has  already  occurred. 

52.  Is  all  new  artillery  bushed  ? 

No,  only  bronze  pieces,  and  iron  pieces,  only  when  re- 
peated firing  has  rendered  it  absolutely  necessary. 

53.  How  is  artillery  rendered  unserviceable  ? 

I.  Drive  into  the  vent  a  jagged  and  hardened  steel  spike 
with  a  soft  point,  or  a  nail  without  a  head ;  break  it  off  flush 
with  the  outer  surface,  and  clinch  the  point  inside  by  means 
of  the  rammer. 

II.  Wedge  a  shot  in  the  bottom  of  the  bore  by  wrapping 
it  with  felt,  or  by  means  of  iron  wedges,  using  the  rammer 
or  a  bar  of  iron  to  drive  them  in. 

III.  Cause  shells  to  burst  in  the  bore  of  bronze  guns. 

IV.  Fire  broken  shot  from  them  with  large  charges. 

V.  Fill  the  piece  with  sand  over  the  charge,  to  burst  it. 

VI.  Fire  a  piece  against  another,  muzzle  to  muzzle,  or  the 
muzzle  of  one  to  the  chase  of  the  other. 

Q-jT       VII.   Light  a  fire  under  the  chase  of  a  bronze  gun, 

-'  and  strike  on  it  with  a  sledge,  to  bend  it. 

VIII.  Break  off  the  trunnions  of  iron  guns  ;  or  burst  them 
by  firing  them  at  a  high  elevation,  with  heavy  charges  and 
full  of  shot. 

54.  State  how  to  unspike  a  piece. 

If  the  spike  is  not  screwed  in  or  clinched,  and  the  bore  is 
not  impeded,  put  in  a  charge  of  powder  J  of  the  weight  of 
the  shot,  and  ram  junk  wads  over  it ;  laying  on  the  bottom 
of  the  bore  a  slip  of  wood,  with  a  groove  on  the  under  side 
containing  a  strand  of  quick-match,  by  which  fire  is  commu- 
nicated to  the  charge.     In  a  brass  gun,  take  out  some  of  the 


18  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

metal  at  the  upper  orifice  of  the  vent,  and  pour  sulphuric 
acid  into  the  groove,  and  let  it  stand  some  hours  before  firing. 
If  this  method,  several  times  repeated,  is  not  successful,  un- 
screw the  vent  piece  if  it  be  a  brass  gun  ;  and  if  an  iron  one, 
drill  out  the  spike,  or  drill  a  new  vent. 

55.  Explain  how  to  drive  out  a  shot  wedged  in  the  bore. 
Unscrew  the  vent  piece,  if  there  be  one,  and  drive  in 

wedges  so  as  to  start  the  shot  forward;  then  ram  it  back 
again  in  order  to  seize  the  wedge  with  a  hook ;  or  pour  in 
powder,  and  fire  it  after  replacing  the  vent  piece.  In  the 
last  resort,  bore  a  hole  in  the  l)ottom  of  the  breech,  drive  out 
the  shot,  and  stop  the  hole  with  a  screw. 

56.  What  is  scaling  a  piece  of  artiller}^  ? 

Flashing  off  a  small  quantitv  of  powder  to  clean  out  the 
bore;  about  1-12  of  the  shot's  weight.  The  practice  is  dis- 
continued. 

57.  How  are  cannon  in  our  service  marked  ? 

As  follows,  viz :  The  numher  of  the  gun  and  the  initials  of 
the  insiiector'' s  name  on  the  face  oi"  the  muzzle, — the  num-  r^o 
bers  in  a  separate  series  for  each  kind  and  calibre  at  each  ^ 
foundry;  the  initial  letters  of  the  name  of  the  founder,  and  of 
the  foundry,  on  the  end  of  the  right  trunnion;  the  year  of  the 
fabrication  on  the  end  of  the  left  trunnion;  the  foundry  num- 
ber on  the  end  of  the  right  rimbase,  above  the  trunnion ;  the 
iveight  of  the  piece  in  pounds  on  the  base  of  the  breech  ;  the 
letters  U.  S.  on  the  upper  surface  of  the  piece,  near  the  end 
of  the  reinforce. 

58.  What  marks  are  used  to  designate  condemned  pieces  ? 
Pieces  rejected  on  inspection  are  marked  X  C  on  the  face 

of  the  muzzle  ;  if  condemned  for  erroneous  dimensions  which 
cannot  be  remedied,  add  X  D  ;  if  by  powder  proof,  X  P  ;  if 
by  water  proof,  X  W. 

59.  What  are  the  kinds  of  proof  which  artillery  must  un- 
dergo, before  being  received  into  the  service  ? 

1st.  They  arc  gauged  as  to  their  several  dimensions,  in- 
ternal and  external;  as  to  justness  and  position  of  the  bore, 
the  cliamber,  vent,  trunnions,  &c. 

2d.  They  are  fired  with  a  regulated  charge  of  powder  and 
shot,  being  afterwards  searched  to  discover  irregularities  or 
holes  produced  by  the  firing. 

3d.  By  means  of  engines,  an  endeavor  is  made  to  force 
water  through  them. 


ARTILLERY   IN    GENERAL.  19 

4th.  They  are  examined  internally,  by  means  of  light  re- 
flected from  a  mirror. 

60.  Are  brass  cannon  liable  to  external  injury,  caused  by 
service  ? 

oo-i       They  are  little  subject  to  such  injury,  except  from  the 
-•  bending-  of  the  trunnions  sometimes,  after  long  service  or 
heavy  charges. 

Note. — Recent  experiments  at  Fort  Monroe  show  that  brass 
guns,  when  rifled,  and  fir(;d  with  large  charges  and  heavy  shot,  ex- 
pand so  much  that  the  projectile  does  not  take  the  grooves. 

61.  What  are  the  causes  of  internal  injury? 

Internal  injuries  are  caused  by  the  action  of  the  elastic 
fluids  developed  in  the  combustion  of  the  powder,  or  by  the 
action  of  the  shot  in  passing  out  of  the  bore. 

62.  Name  the  injuries  of  the  first  kind. 
Enlargement  of  the  bore  by  the  compression  of  the  metal; 

corrosion  of  the  metal  at  the  inner  orifice  of  the  vent,  or  at 
the  mouth  of  the  cylindrical  chamber;  cracks,  from  the  yield- 
ing of  the  cohesion  of  the  metal;  cavities,  cracks  enlarged  by 
the  action  of  the  gas,  and  by  the  melting  of  the  metal,  ob- 
servable especially  in  the  upper  surface  of  the  bore. 

63.  Name  those  of  the  second  kind. 

The  lodgment  of  the  shot, — a  compression  of  the  metal  on 
the  lower  side  of  the  bore,  at  the  seat  of  the  shot,  which  is 
caused  by  the  pressure  of  the  gas  in  escaping  over  the  top  of 
the  shot.  There  is  a  corresponding  hurr  in  front  of  the  lodg- 
ment ;  and  the  motion  thereby  given  to  the  shot  causes  it  to 
strike  alternately  on  the  top  and  bottom  of  the  bore,  produc- 
ing other  enlargements,  generally  three  in  number:  the  first, 
on  the  upper  side  a  little  in  advance  of  the  trunnions ;  the  se- 
cond, on  the  lower  side  about  the  astragal ;  the  third,  in  the 
upper  part  of  the  muzzle ;  it  is  chiefly  from  this  cause  that 
brass  guns  become  unserviceable.  Scratches,  caused  by  th^ 
24-]  fragments  of  a  broken  shot,  or  the  roughness  of  an  im- 

•'  perfect  one;  enlargement  of  the  muzzle  by  the  striking 
of  the  shot  in  leaving  the  bore ;  external  craclcs,  or  longitudi- 
nal slits,  caused  by  too  great  a  compression  of  the  metal  on 
the  inside. 

64.  When  is  a  piece  said  to  be  honeycombed? 

When  the  surface  of  the  bore  is  full  of  small  holes  or  ca- 
vities. 


20  HAND-BOOK    OF  ARTILLERY. 

65.  To  what  is  this  due  ? 

To  the  mcltinn^  and  volatilization  of  a  portion  of  the  tin  in 
the  alloy ;  tin  being  much  more  fusible  than  copper. 

66.  l3o  lodgments  cause  an  inaccuracy  of  fire  ? 
They  do. 

67.  How  may  this  in  a  measure  be  remedied  ? 

B}^  using-  a  wad  over  the  cartridge,  in  order  to  change  the 
place  of  the  shot ;  or  by  wrapping  the  shot  in  woollen  cloth 
or  paper,  so  as  to  diminish  the  windage.  In  field  guns,  the 
paper  cap  which  is  taken  off  the  cartndge  should  always  be 
put  over  the  shot. 

6S.  To  what  injuries  are  iron  cannon  subject? 

To  the  above  defects  in  a  less  degree  than  brass,  except 
the  corrosion  of  the  metal,  by  which  the  vent  is  rendered  un- 
serviceable from  enlargement.  The  principal  cause  of  in- 
jury to  iron  cannon  is  the  rusting  of  the  metal,  producing  a 
roughness  and  enlargement  of  the  bore,  and  an  increase  of 
any  cavities  or  honeycombs  which  may  exist  in  the  metal. 

69.  How  may  you  judge  of  the  service  of  an  iron  gun? 
Generally  by  the  appearance  of  the  vent. 

70.  What  rules  are  laid  down  for  the  preservation  of  ar- 
tillery ? 

Cannon  should  be  placed  together,  according  to  kind  j-o- 
and  calibre,  on  skids  of  stone,  iron,  or  wood,  laid  on  l  '^ 
hard  ground  well  rammed  and  covered  with  a  layer  of  cin- 
ders or  of  some  other  material  to  prevent  vegetation.  In 
case  of  guns  and  long  howitzers^  the  pieces  should  rest  on 
the  skids  in  front  of  the  base  ring  and  in  rear  of  the  astragal, 
the  axis  inclined  at  an  angle  of  4"  or  5°  with  the  horizon, 
the  muzzle  lowest,  the  trunnions  touching  each  other ;  or  the 
trunnion  of  one  piece  may  rest  on  the  adjoining  piece,  so 
that  the  axis  of  the  trunnions  may  be  inclined  about  45*^  to 
the  horizon ;  the  vent  down,  stopped  with  a  greased  wooden 
plug,  or  with  putty  or  tallow.  The  pieces  may  be  piled  in 
two  tiers,  with  skids  placed  between  them  exactly  over  those 
which  rest  on  the  ground ;  the  muzzles  of  both  tiers  in  the 
same  direction  and  their  axes  preserving  the  same  inclina- 
tion. In  case  of  short  lioivitzers  and  mortars,  the  pieces 
should  stand  on  their  muzzles,  resting  on  thick  planks,  the 
trunnions  touching,  the  vents  stopped. 

71.  What  additional  precautions  should  be  observed  in 
case  of  iron  pieces  ? 


GUNS.  21 

They  should  be  covered  on  the  exterior  with  a  lacker  im- 
pervious to  water ;  the  bore  and  the  vent  should  be  greased 
with  a  mixture  of  oil  and  talloic,  or  of  tallow  and  beeswax 
melted  together  and  boiled  to  expel  the  water.  The  lacker 
should  be  renewed  as  often  as  necessary,  and  the  grease  at 
least  once  a  year.  The  lacker  and  grease  should  be  applied 
in  hot  weather.  The  cannon  should  be  frequently  inspected, 
to  see  that  moisture  does  not  collect  in  the  bore. 


26] 

PART   I.    SECTION  II, 


ON  GUNS. 


1.  What  are  Guns? 

Long  cannon  without  chambers. 

2.  How  are  guns  denominated  ? 

By  the  weight  of  their  respective  shot. 

3.  What  are  the  principal  parts  of  a  gun  ? 

The  cascable,  breech,  reinforce,  chase,  and  muzzle. 

4.  What  proportion  usually  exists  between  the  length  and 
calibre  of  a  gun  ? 

It  varies  from  15  to  23  calibres. 

5.  What  proportion  does  the  dispart  of  a  gun  beargene- 
rallj'  to  its  length  ? 

About  a  sixtieth  part  in  field  guns,  about  a  thirtieth  part 
in  sea-coast,  and  about  a  thirty-eighth  part  in  siege  and  gar- 
rison guns. 

6.  What  is  the  natural  angle  of  sight  in  siege  and  garri- 
son guns  ? 

One  degree  and  thirty  minutes. 

7.  What  is  it  in  field  guns  ? 
One  degree. 

8.  Why  have  sea-coast  guns  no  natural  line  of  sight? 
Because  the  swell  of  the  muzzle  is  not  visible  when  the 

eye  is  on  a  level  with  the  base  ring. 


22  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

9.  Upon  what  are  guns  momited  ? 

On  field,  siege,  barbette  or  casemate  carriages. 

10.  AVliat  prq}ectiles  are  used  with  guns  ?  P^y 
Solid  shot,  spherical  case,  grape,  and  canister.  '• 

11.  About  what  are  the  weights  of  the  difl'erent  guns? 
6-pdr.,  884  lbs. ;  brass  12-pdr.,  1,757  lbs. ;  iron  IS-pdr., 

3,590  lbs. ;  18-pdr.,  4,913  lbs. ;  24-pdr.,  5,790  lbs. ;  32-pdi-., 
7,200  lbs. ;  42-pdr.,  8,465  lbs. 

12.  Give  the  entire  length  of  the  several  guns  ? 

6-pdr.  field-gun,  65.6  inches ;  12-pdr.  field-gun,  85  inches ; 
12-pdr.  iron  gun,  116  inches;  18-pdr.,  123.25  inches;  24-pdr., 
124  inches;  32-pdr.,  125.2  inches;  42-pdr.,  129  inches. 


[28 
PART  I.    SECTION  III. 


ON  HOWITZERS. 

1.  What  is  a  Howitzer? 

A  chambered  piece,  of  larger  calibre  than  a  gun  of  like 
weight,  and  mounted  in  a  similar  manner. 

2.  AVhat  form  of  chamber  is  given  to  howitzers  ? 
That  of  a  cylinder. 

3.  How  is  it  united  with  the  large  cylinder  of  the  bore  ? 
By  a  conical  surface,  except  in  the  8-inch  siege  howitzer, 

where  it  is  united  with  the  cylinder  of  the  bore  by  a  spherical 
surface,  in  order  that  the  shell  may — when  necessary — be 
inserted  without  a  sabot. 

4.  What  advantages  are  gained  by  the  employment  of 
howitzers  ? 

They  project  larger  shells  than  the  guns  with  which  they 
are  associated,  are  well  adapted  for  ricochet  fire,  the  destruc- 
tion of  field  works,  breaking  down  palisades,  and  setting  fire 
to  buildings. 

5.  What  projectiles  are  used  with  howitzers  ? 


COLUMBIADS.  23 

Shells  usually,  spherical  case,  canister,  grape  and  car- 
casses. 

6.  Give  the  entire  length  of  the  several  howitzers  ? 

Iron  10-inch,  124.25  inches ;  8-inch  sea-coast,  109  inches  ; 
8-inch  siege  and  garrison,  61.5  inches;  24-pdr.  garrison,  69 
OQ1  inches;    32-pdr.   field,    82   inches;    24-pdr.  field,   71.2 

-I  inches;  12-pdr.  field,  58.6  inches;  mountain,  12-pdr., 
37.21  inches. 

7.  What  is  the  weight  of  a  howitzer  of  each  kind? 
10-inch,  9,500  lbs.;  8-inch  sea-coast,  5,740  lbs.;  8-inch 

siege  and  garrison,  2,614  lbs.;  24-pdr.  garrison,  1,476  lbs.; 
32-pdr.  field,  1,920  lbs.;  24-pdr.  field,  1,318  lbs.;  12-pdr. 
field,  788  lbs. ;  12  pdr.  mountain,  220  lbs. 

8.  What  is  the  natural  angle  of  sight  in  siege  and  garri- 
son and  field  howitzers  ? 

One  degree. 

9.  What  in  mountain  howitzers  ? 
Thirty-seven  minutes. 

10.  Why  have  sea-coast  howitzers  no  natural  line  of  sight  ? 
Because  the  swell  of  the  muzzle  is  not  visible  when  the 

eye  is  on  a  level  with  the  base  ring. 


30] 

PAKT  I.     SECTION  IV. 


ON  COLUMBIADS. 

1.  What  is  a  Columhiad? 

A  gun  of  much  larger  calibre  than  the  ordinary  gun,  used 
for  throwing  solid  shot  or  shells. 

2.  What  are  some  of  the  peculiarities  of  this  gun,  when 
mounted  in  barbette  ? 

Its  carriage  gives  a  vertical  field  of  fire  from  5°  depression 
to  39°  elevation ;  and  a  horizontal  field  of  fire  of  360°. 

3.  Are  these  pieces  chambered? 


24  HAND-BOOK   OF   ARTILLERY. 

Those  of  the  old  pattern  have  chambers;   but  they  are 
now  cast  without  any. 

4.  Give  the  weight  of  this  piece? 
10-iuch,  15,400  lbs. ;  8-iuch,  9,240  lbs. 

5.  What  is  the  entire  length  of  this  gun? 
10-inch,  126  inches;  8-inch,  124  inches. 

6.  What  is  the  natural  angle  of  sight  in  this  piece? 
8-inch,  1°  23';  10-inch,  1^  21'. 


[31 
PART  I.    SECTION  V. 


ON  MORTARS. 

1.  What  is  nMoriar? 

The  shortest  piece  in  seiTice ;  the  trunnions  are  placed  in 
rear  of  the  vent  at  the  breech ;  the  bore  is  very  large  in  pro- 
portion to  the  length,  and  is  provided  with  a  chamber. 

2.  What  are  the  principal  advantages  obtained  by  the  em- 
ployment of  mortars  ? 

Reaching  objects  by  their  vertical  fire — such  as  a  town, 
battery,  or  other  place — whose  destruction  or  injury  cannot 
be  effected  by  direct  or  ricochet  fire ;  dismounting  the  ene- 
my's artillery ;  setting  fire  to  and  overthrowing  works ;  blow- 
ing up  magazines ;  breaking  through  the  roofs  of  barracks, 
casemates,  &c. ;  and  producing  havoc  and  disorder  amongst 
troops. 

3.  What  do  you  mean  by  vertical  tire  ? 

That  produced  by  firing  the  mortar  at  a  high  elevation. 

4.  What  are  its  advantages  ? 

The  shell  having  attained  a  great  elevation,  descends  with 
great  force  on  the  object,  in  consequence  of  the  constant  ac- 
tion of  the  force  of  gravity  on  it. 

5.  Why  are  mortars  constructed  stronger  and  shorter  than 
other  pieces  ? 


MORTARS.  25 

Because  greater  resistance  is  reqnii'ed  in  consequence  of 
or)-!  tlie  high  elevation  under  which  they  are  fired ;  and  were 
'^^  they  longer,  the  diflaculty  experienced  in  loading  them 
would  become  too  great. 

6.  Why  is  a  mortar  constructed  with  a  chamber  ? 

In  consequence  of  employing  various  charges,  some  very 
small,  it  becomes  necessary  to  use  a  chamber  to  concentrate 
the  charge  as  much  as  possible,  so  that  the  shell  may  be  acted 
on  by  the  entire  expansive  force  of  the  powder. 

7.  What  form  of  chamber  is  given  to  mortars  ? 

Usually  that  of  a  frustum  of  a  cone.  The  bottom  is  hemi- 
spherical in  the  sea-coast,  stone,  and  eprouvette  mortars.  In 
siege  mortars  it  is  a  plane  surface,  the  angles  of  intersection, 
being  rounded  in  profile  by  arcs  of  circles. 

8.  What  is  this  form  of  chamber  called? 
Gomer  Chamber. 

9.  What  is  the  advantage  of  the  conical  over  the  cylindri- 
cal chamber  ? 

Cylindrical  chambers  are  objectionable,  as  the  projectile  is 
frequently  broken  in  consequence  of  the  small  surface  ex- 
posed to  the  action  of  the  charge.  This  defect  is  obviated 
by  large  chambers,  and  particularly  by  those  that  are  coni- 
cal, in  which  the  charge  is  expended  upon  nearly  a  hemi- 
sphere. 

10.  What  form  of  chamber  has  the  eprouvette  ? 

That  of  a  cylinder,  it  being  the  only  mortar  whose  cham- 
ber is  of  this  shape. 

11.  How  are  mortars  mounted? 
On  beds  of  wood  or  iron. 

12.  What  is  the  object  of  mounting  mortars  on  beds  in 
preference  to  wheel  carriages  ? 

On  account  of  the  high  elevation  at  which  they  are  usually 
221  fired,  when  the  recoil,  instead  of  forcing  the  piece  back- 

-•  wards,  tends  to  force  it  downwards,  and  this  tendency 
becomes  so  great  at  the  higher  angles  that  no  wheel-carriage 
could  long  sustain  the  shock. 

13.  What  is  the  entire  length  of  each  mortar  ? 
13-inch,  53  inches ;  10-inch  sea-coast,  46  inches ;  10-inch 

siege,  28  inches;  8-inch,  32.5  inches;  stone  mortar,  31.55 
inches ;  coehorn,  16.32  inches. 

14.  What  are  the  weights  of  mortars  ? 

2 


26  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

13-in.,  11,500  lbs.;  10-in.  sea-coast,  5,775  lbs.;  10-in. 
eieo-e,  1,852  lbs.;  S-iu.,  930  lbs.;  stone  mortar,  1,500  lbs.; 
coeliorn,  164  lbs.;  eprouvette,  220  lbs. 

15.  AVhat  are  the  weights  of  the  different  mortar  beds  ? 
8-in.  siege,  920  lbs. ;  10-in.  siege,  1,830  lbs. ;  coeliorn,  132 

lbs. ;  eprouvette,  280  lbs. 

16.  What  are  the  diameters  of  the  bores  of  the  stone, 
coehorn,  and  eprouvette  mortars  ? 

Stone  mortar,  16  inches ;  coehorn,  5.82  inches ;  eprouvette, 
5.655  inches. 

17.  What  is  the  length  of  the  bore,  exclusive  of  the  cham- 
ber, of  the  different  mortars  ? 

13-in.,  26  inches;  10-in.  sea-coast,  25  inches;  10-in.  siege, 
15  inches;  8-in.,  12  inches;  stone  mortar,  19.8  inches;  coe- 
horn, 8.82  inches;  eprouvette,  11.5  inches. 

18.  What  is  the  length  of  the  chamber  of  the  different 
mortars  ? 

13-in.,  13  inches;  10-in.  sea-coast,  10  inches;  10-in.  siege, 
5  inches;  8-in.,  4  inches;  stone  mortar,  6.75  inches;  coe- 
horn, 4.25  inches;  eprouvette,  1.35  inches. 

19.  For  what  purpose  is  the  eprouvette  used  ?  rg^ 
For  determining  the  relative  strength  of  gunpowder?   '- 

20.  To  what  purpose  is  a  stone  mortar  applied  ? 

To  throw  stones  a  short  distance,  from  150  to  250  yards ; 
and  also  6-pr.  shells  from  50  to  150  3^ards. 

21.  In  what  manner  are  the  stones  disposed  in  this  mortar  ? 
They  are  put  into  a  basket  fitted  to  the  bore,  and  placed 

on  a  wooden  bottom  which  covers  the  mouth  of  the  chamber. 

22.  What  use  is  made  of  coehorn  mortars  ? 

They  are  fired  either  from  behind  intrenchments  like  other 
mortars,  or  they  may  accompany  troops  in  effecting  lodg- 
ments in  towns  and  fortified  places. 

23.  AVhat  kind  of  projectiles  are  thrown  from  mortars  ? 
Shells,  fire-balls,  carcasses,  and  stones. 

24.  How  rapidly  may  siege  mortars  be  fired  ? 

At  the  rate  of  twelve  rounds  per  hour  continuously ;  and 
in  case  of  need  with  greater  rapidity. 


SEA-COAST   ARTILLERY*  27 

35] 

PART  I.     SECTION  VI. 


SEA-COAST  ARTILLERY. 

1.  How  are  Sea- Coast  pieces  mounted? 

On  barbette,  casemate,  llauk-casemate,  and  columbiad  car- 
riages ;  and  the  carriage  upon  which  the  mortar  is  mounted — 
called  its  led.  These  carriages  do  not  subserve  the  purpose 
of  transportation;  the  barbette  carriage  may,  however,  be 
used  for  moving  its  piece  for  short  distances,  as  from  one 
front  of  the  work  to  another. 

2.  What  number  and  kind  of  pieces  are  required  for  the 
armaments  of  forts  on  the  seaboard  ? 

In  our  service  they  are  prescribed  by  the  War  Department, 
according  to  the  character  and  extent  of  the  work. 

3.  What  disposition  should  be  made  of  heavy  and  light 
pieces  in  a  fortification  ? 

Heavy  pieces  should  be  employed  on  the  salients  of  the 
work,  or  for  enfilading  channels  where  a  long  range  is  re- 
quired ;  light  pieces,  where  the  range  is  shorter. 


36] 

PART  I.    SECTION  VII. 


SIEGE  ARTILLERY. 

1.  How  are  siege-guns  mounted  ? 

Usually  on  travelling-carriages,  with  limbers. 

2.  Of  what  number  and  kind  of  pieces  is  a  siege-train 
composed  ? 

This  must  altogether  depend  on  circumstances;  but  the 
following  general  principles  may  be  observed  in  assigning 


28  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

tlie  proportion  of  different  kinds  and  calibres,  and  the  rela- 
tive quantity  of  other  supplies  for  a  train  of  100  pieces : 

p     ,      ^  24-pdr.,  about  one-half  the  whole  number,               -  50 

^'-^'-  n^-pdr.  or  12-pdr.,  one-tenth,                  -                   -  10 

Howitzers.    8-iu.  sieg-e,  one-fourth,                 -                   -  25 

MoRT.«s.{10-m.  siege,  oao-eigbtb,                  -                   -  )2 

S™™ORxTor^i.S,l --Edition  to  tte  100  pieces,    \        I  « 

"SVall  Pieces,              -                  -                  -                  -  40 

carriages. 

For  24-pdr.  guns,  and  8-in.  howitzers,  one-fifth  spare,            -  90 

For  18-pdr.  and  12-pdr.  guns,            -                    -                    -  12 

0--1  For  10-in.  mortars  and  stone  mortars,  one-sixth  spare,    -  21 

'  J  For  8-in.  mortars,           -                    -                    -            -  4 
Mortar-icagons,  1  for  each  10-in.  mortar  and  bed,  for  each 

stone  mortar  and  bed,  and  for  three  8-in.  mortar  and  beds,  38 
Wagons  for  transporting  implements,  intrenching  and   mi- 
ner's tools,  laboratory  tools  and  utensils  and  other  stores, 


each  loaded  vrith  about  2,700  lbs.,  say, 

. 

-       140 

Carts  (carrying  balls,  &c.  on  the  march). 

- 

50 

Park  battcry-icagons,  fully  equipped, 

- 

-        28 

Park  forges,                        " 

- 

8 

Sling  carts,  large. 

- 

5 

Do.       hand. 

- 

4 

DRAUGHT  HORSES. 

For  each  gun  and  howitzer,  with  its  carriage, 

. 

8 

"       Spare  gun-carriage. 

- 

6 

"       Mortar  wagon. 

- 

8 

"       Battery  wagon. 

- 

6 

"       Forge, 

- 

6 

"       Cart, 

- 

2 

"       Sling-cart,  large, 

- 

2 

"       Spare  horses. 

- 

-  1-lOth 

Total,  about  1,900  horses. 

PROJECTILES   AND   AMMUNITION. 

Kound-shot,  800  to  each  24-pdr.,  1,000  to  each  18  and 
12  pdr. 

For  Guns.  {  Grape  and  canisters  strapped,   20  rounds   to  each 
I       piece. 
I,  Spherical-case  strapped,  20  rounds  to  each  piece. 


SIEGE   ARTILLEEY.  ^9 

38] 

(  Shells,  800  to  each  8-in.  howitzer. 
For  Howitzers.  <  Canisters  strapped,  5  to  each. 

(  Spher.  case  strapped,  20  to  each. 


(  600  shells  to  each  10-inch. 


including 
charge  of 
sheU. 


For  MORT.YRS.  /  860     "  "        8-inch. 

^200     "  "      Coehom. 

Gunpoicder,  in  barrels,  500,000  lbs. 

Computing  for  each  24-pdr.  round  shot,  one-third  the  weight  of  shot. 
"  '*        18   and   12    pdr.  round  shot,   one-fourth    the 

weight  of  shot. 
"  "       grape,  canister  and  spherical-case,  one-sixth  the 

weight  of  shot. 
"  "       round  of  howitzer  ammunition, 

5  lbs. 
"  "       round  10-in.  mortar  aromunition, 

7  lbs. 
"  "       round  8-in.  mortar  ammunition, 

3  lbs. 

"  •*       round  Coehom  mortar  ammunition,  ^  lb. 

"  "       round  stone  mortar  ammunition,  1  lb. 

3.  What  is  the  best  position  for  gtms  in  order  to  make  a 
breach  ? 

On  the  glacis,  witliin  15  or  16  feet  of  its  crest:  but  if  the 
foot  of  the  revetment  cannot  be  seen  from  thence,  the  guns 
must  be  placed  in  the  covered  way,  within  15  feet  of  the 
counterscarp. 

4.  In  what  manner  should  the  fire  of  siege  guns  be  con- 
ducted in  order  to  form  a  breach  ? 

1st.  Make  a  horizontal  section  the  length  of  the  desired 
«^Q-j  breach  along  the  scarp,  at  one-third  its  height  from  the 

-■  bottom  of  the  ditch,  and  to  a  depth  er[nal  to  the  thick- 
ness of  the  wall. 

2d.  Make  vertical  cuts  through  the  wall,  not  farther  than 
ten  yards  apart,  and  not  exceeding  one  to  each  piece  of  ord- 
nance, beginning  at  the  horizontal  section  and  ascending 
gradually  to  the  top  of  the  wall. 

3d,  Fire  at  the  most  prominent  parts  of  the  masonry  left 
standing :  beginning  always  at  the  bottom  and  gradually  ap- 
proaching the  top. 

4th.  Fire  into  the  broken  mass  with  howitzers  until  the 
breach  is  practicable. 

5.  How  long  would  it  take  to  make  a  breach  of  20  yards 
in  length  ? 


30  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

Breaches  of  more  than  20  yards  in  length  liave  been  opened 
b}^  "vvaj'  of  experiment,  and  rendered  practicable  in  less  than 
ten  hours,  by  about  two  hundred  and  thirty  24-pdr.  balls  and 
forty  shells  in  one  case,  and  by  three  hundred  18-pdr.  balls 
and  forty  shells  in  another. 

6.    How  many  discharges  can  an  iron  gun  sustain  ? 

An  iron  gun  should  sustain  twelve  hundred  discharges,  at 
the  rate  of  twelve  an  hour ;  but  whatever  may  be  the  rate  of 
fire,  it  is  deemed  unsafe  after  that  number  of  discharges. 
As  many  as  twenty  an  hour  have  been  made  for  sixteen  con- 
secutive hours. 


[40 

PART  I.     SECTION  VIII. 


ON  FIELD-GUNS  AND  BATTEKIES. 

1.  What  proportion  of  artillery  should  be  allotted  to  an 
army  in  the  field  ? 

The  proportion  of  artillery  to  other  troops  varies  generally 
between  the  limits  of  one  and  three  pieces  to  1,000  men,  ac- 
cording to  the  strength  of  the  army,  the  character  of  the 
troops  composing  it,  the  strength  and  character  of  the  enemy, 
the  nature  of  the  country  which  is  to  be  the  theatre  of  the 
war,  and  the  character  and  objects  of  the  war. 

2.  What  regulates  the  selection  of  the  kinds  of  artillery 
and  the  proportion  of  the  diff'erent  kinds  in  the  train  ? 

Similar  considerations  to  those  specified  in  the  foregoing 
answer.  The  following  principles  may  be  observed  in  ordi- 
nary cases : 

(  il  are  12-pdrs. 

3  nieces  to^  ^  «^^''^'  ^^  ^^'^'^^'^^         ^  ^    "     ^"P^""^' 

J  pieces  to  ^  ,^   ,,    24or.32-pdrs. 

i,uuu  men.  ^  ^  howitz.,  of  which  \  |  "    12-pdrs. 

3.  What  is  a  field-battery  ? 


FIELD-GUNS   AND   BATTERIES.  31 

A  certain  number  of  pieces  of  artillery  so  equipped  as  to 
be  available  for  attack  or  defense,  and  capable  of  accom- 
panying cavalry  or  infantry  in  all  their  movements  in  the 
field. 

4.   How  many  pieces  are  allotted  to  a  field-battery  ? 

Four  guns  and  two  howitzers. 
^j1       5.  Are  all  field-batteries  alike  ? 

^  No;  field-batteries  accompanying  infantry  are  com- 
posed of  the  heavier,  and  those  accompanying  cavalry  of  the 
lighter  pieces,  the  first  manned  by  foot-artillery,  and  the  latter 
by  horse-artillery. 

6.  In  what  respect  does  a  battery  of  horse-artillery  differ 
from  one  of  foot-artillery  ? 

The  main  difference  consists  in  the  cannoneers  in  a  battery 
of  horse-artillery  being  mounted ;  in  rapid  evolutions  of  foot- 
artillery  they  are  conveyed  on  the  carriages. 

7.  What  is  the  composition  of  a  field-battery  on  the  war 
establishment  ? 

KIND   OF   BATTERY. 

Guns.  \  ^f^^''"  "^^^f^ed, 
^    6-pdrs.,        " 

Howitzers.  \  ^f^^''-'  counted, 
^  12-pdrs.,        " 

Traveling  Forges, 
Battery  Wagon, 


Whole  No.  of  carnages  with  a  battery, 


(  Shot,       - 
For  4  guns,  <  Spher.  case, 
(  Canisters, 


(  Shells, 


g  "^  For  2  howitzers,  <  Spher.  case, 
^  (  Canisters, 


^  Total  No.  rounds  with  a  battery. 


12-PR 

.  6-PR. 

4 

4 

2 

2 

6 

6 

8 

4 

4 

2 

12 

6 

1 

1 

1 

1 

2 

2 

20 

14 

560 

560 

224 

80 

112 

160 

896 

800 

168 

120 

112 

160 

42 

32 

322 

312 

1218 

1112 

32  ^HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

[42 

KIND   OF   BATTERY.  12-PR.   6-rR. 


Draught  Horses. 


G  to  each  carriage,        -  -      120      84 

Spare  horses,  1-12,       -  -        10        7 

Total,  130      91 

Note. — For  two  32-p(lr.  ho-svitzer  carriages  and  four  caissons,  the 
number  of  rounds  of  ammunition  is  : 

SheUs, 112 

Spher.  case,   -  ...         84 

Canisters,       -  ...  14 

Total,  210 

8.  What  is  the  composition  of  a  battery  of  mountain 
howitzers  ? 

Howitzers,                  -                   -  -  -  6 

Gun-carriages,             -                   -  -  -  7 

Ammunition-chests,    -                    -  -  -  36 

(48  rounds  for  each  howitzer.) 

Forge  and  tools,  in  2  chests,          -  -  -  1 

Set  of  carriage-makers'  tools  in  2  chests,  -  -  1 

Pack  saddles  and  harness,             -  -  -  33 

Horses  or  mules,        -                   -  -  -  33 

9.  What  composes  the  Field-Park  ? 

The  spare  carriages,  reserved  supplies  of  ammunition, 
tools,  and  materials  for  extensive  repairs,  and  for  making  up 
ammunition,  for  the  service  of  an  army  in  the  fiekl  from  the 
Field-Parh,  to  which  should  be  attached  also  the  batteries 
of  reserve. 

10.  What  determines  the  quantity  of  such  supplies  ? 
The  quantities  of  such  supplies  must  depend  in  a  great 

measure  on  the  particular  circumstances  of  the  campaign. 

11.  How  is  the  ammunition  which  cannot  be  transported 
by  the  batteries  carried  ? 

With  the  park ;  in  caissons,  or  in  store-wagons. 

12.  Do  any  other  carriages  and  stores  form  part  of  r  .o 
the  Field-Park?  '■ 

Yes ;  spare  gun-carriages,  one  to  each  field-battery, 
Traveling  Forges,  )  ^^^^  ^^.  ^^^^.^  ^^  ^^^^^ 
Battery-  Wagons,    ^ 


FIELD-GUNS   AND   BATTERIES.  33 

Spare  spokes,  50  to  each  battery,  ^ 

Spare  fellies,  20  to  each  battery,   !  .      .^^^^  „,„^^„^ 
c.^       •<  -V      . ,  -^     >  m  store  wagons . 

bpare  harness,  /      in       j  ° 

Horseshoes  and  nails,    ^  boxes.   J 

Gunpowder,  saltpetre,  sulphur,  charcoal,  laboratory  paper, 

cannon-primers  (percussion  and  friction),  fuzes  and  plugs  for 

field-service,  stuff  for  cartridge  bags,  woollen  yarn,  cotton 

yarn,  glue. 

13.  Are  any  other  pieces  ever  used  for  field  service  ? 

Yes :  sometimes  the  12  and  18-pdr.  siege  guns,  and  the 
8-in.  siege  howitzer. 

14.  For  what  particular  service  are  these  different  pieces 
most  suitable  ? 

The  siege  pieces  for  batteries  of  position ;  the  12-pdr.  bat- 
tery, for  following  the  movements  of  infantry,  and  the  6-pdr. 
battery  for  those  of  cavalry. 

Note. — These  siege  pieces  should  be  placed  on  the  weakest 
points  of  a  line,  and  on  heights  which  either  form  a  key  to  the  po- 
sition, or  from  whence  the  greatest  and  longest  continued  effect  may 
be  produced. 

15.  What  are  the  peculiar  advantages  of  Horse  Artillery? 
Possessing,  from  their  lighter  construction  and  mounted 

detachments,  much  greater  locomotive  powers  than  other 
field  batteries,  they  are  especially  adapted  for  following  the 
rapid  evolutions  of  cavalry,  for  sudden  attacks  upon  particu- 
lar points,  and  for  supporting  the  advance  or  covering  the 
retreat  of  an  army, 
.^-j       16.   How  is  a  field  gun  mounted  ? 

-'  Upon  a  four-wheel  carriage,  which  answers  for  its 
transportation  as  well  as  for  its  service,  similar  to  a  siege 
carriage,  but  lighter,  and  the  limber  carrying  an  ammuni- 
tion chest. 

17.  Where  should  a  battery  be  placed  before  the  com- 
mencement of  an  action  ? 

As  much  as  possible  under  cover,  by  taking  advantage  of 
banks,  Iiollow-ways,  buildings,  woods,  &c. 

18.  Is  it  advisable  to  move  a  battery  at  once  into  position 
in  the  field  ? 

No ;  but  if  unavoidable,  it  should  be  masked  as  much  as 
possible  until  ordered  to  open  its  fire. 
2* 


34  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

19.  How  sbould  a  battery  be  masked? 

If  practicable,  hy  coveriug  it  with  cavalry,  in  prefereuce 
to  infantry,  as  the  former  does  it  more  effectually,  and  is 
sooner  moved  out  of  the  way. 

20.  In  commencing  an  action,  how  should  the  fire  of  a 
battery  be  directed  ? 

When  the  enemy  is  in  line,  the  fire  should  be  directed  over 
the  whole  line,  and  not  upon  the  real  points  of  attack ;  but 
when  in  column,  ready  to  advance,  it  should  be  concentrated 
upon  the  real  points  of  attack. 

21.  How  should  batteries  be  placed  in  relation  to  the 
troops  with  which  they  arc  acting  ? 

Upon  the  flanks  of  a  line,  but  at  such  a  distance  as  not  to 
impede  its  movements,  and  at  the  same  time  to  be  unfet- 
tered in  their  own ;  the  artillery  may  thus  represent  the  faces 
of  a  bastion,  and  the  line  of  troops  the  curtain. 

22.  Is  the  front  of  a  line  of  troops  an  advantageous  posi- 
tion for  a  field  batter}^  ? 

On  the  contrary,  it  is  the  worst  possible,  as  offering  a  dou- 
ble object  to  the  enemy's  fire,  and  greatly  obstructing  r  .c- 
the  movements  of  the  troops ;  while  a  position  in  rear  is   '- 
nearly  as  bad,  as  the  fire  might  seriously  injure,  or  at  least, 
greatly  disquiet  them. 

23.  In  supporting  an  attack,  what  precautions  are  neces- 
sary? 

The  battery  should  be  carefully  kept  clear  of  the  intended 
line  of  march  of  our  own  troops,  and  such  points  occupied  as 
may  afford  the  greatest  annoyance  to  the  enemy. 

24.  How  should  batteries  be  disposed  with  regard  to  the 
enemy's  troops  ? 

Generally  so  as  to  secure  a  cross  fire  on  his  position,  and 
on  all  the  ground  over  which  he  moves  to  the  attack,  endea- 
voring to  take  him  at  all  times  in  the  direction  of  his  greatest 
dimensions ;  that  is,  obliquely  or  in  flank  when  in  line,  and 
in  front  when  formed  in  columns.  Moderate  heights,  com- 
manding as  much  as  possible  the  surrounding  country,  should 
always  l)e  taken  advantage  of,  but  not  such  as  may  prevent 
operations  in  advance  if  required. 

25.  Is  it  imperatively  necessary  to  confine  positions  for 
field  batteries  to  the  flanks  of  a  line  ? 

When,  from   particular  circumstances,  the  front  of  the 


FIELD-GUNS   AND    BATTERIES.  35 

army  is  too  extended,  and  unavoidably  divided  into  two 
lines,  it  may  become  necessary  to  place  one  or  more  batte- 
ries in  the  centre,  if  those  on  the  flanks  are  unable  to  sweep 
the  whole  front ;  but  great  care  must  be  taken  not  to  impede 
the  advance  or  retreat  of  the  troops  when  required. 

26.  Should  the  fire  of  field  batteries  be  carried  on  at  the 
same  uniform  rate  ? 

.pi  Certainly  not;  the  destruction  of  the  enemy  being  the 
^  object,  it  follows  that  at  distant  ranges,  a  greater  degree 
of  care  is  required  in  pointing  the  guns  ;  the  fire  is  slow  and 
steady,  and  increasing  in  rapidity  as  the  enemy  advances, 
without  however,  impairing  its  precision. 

27.  Should  the  fire  of  field  batteries  be  carried  on  in  sal- 
voes or  otherwise  ? 

Never  in  salvoes ;  but  in  a  regular  manner,  well  sustained, 
and  with  distinct  intervals  between  every  round,  commencing 
slowly,  and  increasing  in  rapidity  as  the  range  diminishes. 

28.  Is  the  fire  of  batteries  more  eflicacious  when  dispersed 
than  when  concentrated  ? 

The  eflfects  of  the  fire  will  be  in  proportion  to  the  number 
of  guns  brought  together,  and  therefore,  in  order  to  strike  a 
decisive  blow,  this  should  at  once  be  done. 

29.  What  projectiles  are  used  with  field  guns? 
Solid  shot,  spherical  case,  and  canister. 

30.  At  what  distance  from  the  enemy  should  the  several 
kinds  of  projectiles  be  employed  with  field  battery  pieces  ? 

Solid  shot  from  .350  yards  and  upwards ;  spherical  case 
from  600  up  to  1000  yards,  although  it  may  be  used  within 
the  first  range  ;  and  canister  within  350  yards,  or  up  to  400 
against  extended  formations. 

31.  What  number  of  rounds  can  be  fired  from  a  field  gun 
in  one  minute  ? 

Two  solid  shot  or  spherical  case,  or  three  of  canister. 

32.  Why  are  more  rounds  of  canister  fired  in  a  minute 
than  of  solid  shot  or  spherical  case  ? 

.yi       Because  the  latter  are  fired  at  greater  distances  than 
-■  canister,  and  require  the  piece  to  be  carefully  aimed, 
thus  requiring  more  time. 

33.  What  is  the  smallest  number  of  guns  that  may  with 
safety  be  employed  in  the  face  of  an  enemy  ? 

Never  less  than  two,  in  order  to  secure  a  continuous  fire 
and  mutual  support. 


36  HAND-BOOK    OP   ARTILLERY. 

34.  Is  the  practice  of  emplo^-iug  field  batteries  against 
those  of  the  enemy  recommended  ? 

Only  under  peculiar  circumstances ;  as  for  instance,  when 
his  troops  are  well  covered  and  his  guns  exposed,  or  their 
fire  very  destructive. 

Their  fire  should  he  directed  principally  against  columns 
of  attack,  and  masses,  or  upon  positions  which  arc  intended 
to  he  carried. 

.'35.  In  what  time  could  a  battery  come  into  action  in  the 
field? 

It  could  come  into  action  and  fire  one  round  in  25  seconds, 
timing  from  the  order  "action  front,"  to  the  discharge  of 
one  piece. 

36.  Suppose  cavalry  to  be  advancing  to  attack  infantry, 
and  first  observed  at  the  distance  of  a  mile,  passing  over  the 
first  half  mile  at  a  trot ;  the  next  quarter  of  a  inile  at  the 
manoiuvring  gallop ;  and  the  remaining  distance  at  an  in- 
creased gallop,  terminating  with  the  charge ;  occupying  al- 
together about  six  minutes :  during  the  last  1500  yards  of 
their  advance  how  many  rounds  per  piece  might  a  battery 
fire  in  that  time  1 

Eleven  rounds  with  effect,  thus  : 

From  1500  to  650  yards,    -    -    3'  32"— spliorical  case,     -    -    -    7 

650  to  350     "         -    -    0'  48"— solid  shot,       ....    2 

"       350  to  close  quarters,  -    0'  34" — canister, 2 

37.  What  number  of  rounds  could  a  battery  fire  against  r.g 
infantry,  supposing  them  to  pass  over  1500  yards  in  about  '- 
16|  minutes  ? 

Tliirty-six  rounds  with  efi'ect,  viz  : 

Fi'om  1500  to  650,  quick  step,     9'  45"— sphcr.  case,  -    -    -    -  19 

650  to  350,          "             3'  50"— solid  shot,  -    -    -    -  7 

350  to  100,          "             2'  30"— canister,  ....  8 

"        100  to  close  (    double   quick     Iq/ ^q// ^r^^  ...  2 

quarters.    \  and  the  charge.   5 

38.  Should  the  enemy  attempt  to  force  the  passage  of  a 
river,  what  is  the  best  position  for  artillery  to  oppose  it  ? 

Wherever  the  best  cross  fire  can  be  obtained  in  order  to 
obstruct  and  harass  him  as  much  as  possible,  and  if  he  has 
succeeded  in  passing  over  any  portion  of  his  troops,  it  should 
be  directed  against  their  formation. 


FIELD-GUNS   AND   BATTERIES.  37 

39.  Wlien  the  enemy  is  luaking-  the  passage  of  a  river  in 
retreat,  -^here  should  your  gims  be  posted  ? 

In  such  a  position  as  to  bear  upon  the  batteries  that  cover 
the  retreat,  and  also  upon  his  bridges. 

40.  In  forcing  the  passage  of  a  river,  what  is  the  most  ad- 
vantageous position  for  artillery  ? 

The  bridge  being  generally  laid  in  a  re-entering  angle, 
batteries  should  be  posted  on  each  side  of  the  bridge,  and  far 
enough  from  it  to  secure  a  cross-fire  on  the  opposite  bank. 

41.  Should  the  indiscriminate  expenditure  of  ammunition 
be  permitted  in  the  field  during  action  ? 

Upon  no  account ;  ammunition  should  at  all  times  be  care- 
fully husbanded,  particularly  at  the  commencement  of  an 
action,  as  the  want  of  it  at  the  close  may  decide  the  fate  of 
the  day ;  it  should  also  be  sparingly  used  in  skirmishes  and 
.Q-|  minor  affairs,  especially  when  at  a  distance  from  supplies, 

-I   or  in  anticipation  of  a  general  action. 

42.  When  should  the  reserve  be  employed  ? 

AVheu  a  particular  point  of  the  line  requires  additional 
support,  a  favorable  position  is  to  be  seized,  an  impression 
has  been  made  on  the  line  by  the  enemy,  a  forward  or  retro- 
grade movement  is  in  contemplation,  or  when  a  determined 
attack  is  to  be  made  on  him,  then  the  reserve  should  come 
up  and  take  part  in  the  action ;  and  it  is  of  the  utmost  im- 
portance that  this  should  be  done  as  expeditiously  as  circum- 
stances will  permit. 

43.  AVhere  should  the  reserve  be  placed  previous  to  an 
engagement  ? 

In  rear  with  the  second  line,  out  of  the  range  of  shot,  and 
as  little  exposed  as  circumstances  will  admit,  but  always  in 
such  a  position  as  to  have  ready  access  to  the  front  or  rear. 

44.  Should  guns  be  lightly  abandoned  before  an  enemy  ? 

Never  until  the  very  last  extremity.  An  artillery- 
man must  never  forget  that  his  gun  is  his  proper  arm  ;  that 
here  lies  his  strength ;  that  here  is  his  post  of  honor  and  of 
duty ;  also,  that  the  last  discharges  are  always  the  most 

DESTRUCTIVE,  aud  MAY  POSSIBLY  INSURE  THE  SAFETY  OF 
THE  WHOLE  ARMY,  Or  TURN  THE  TIDE  OF  VICTORY  IX  THEIR 
FAVOR.  * 

45.  What  is  the  position  for  cavalry  when  placed  in  sup- 
port of  a  battery  ? 


38  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

On  its  flank,  about  the  distance  of  100  yards,  and  as  much 
coucealed  as  possible. 

46.   What  is  the  ^^roper  position  of  field  batteries  when 
infimtry  squares  are  attacked  by  cavalry  ? 

When  infantry  are  formed  in  squares  to  resist  the  r^^v 
charge  of  cavalry,  the  guns  should  be  placed  outside  at  ^^ 
the  angles  of  the  squares,  the  limbers,  horses,  &:c.,  inside. 
Should  the  detachments  be  driven  from  their  guns,  they  will 
retire  into  the  square,  after  discharging  their  pieces,  and 
taking  with  them  the  sponges  and  other  equipments ;  the 
moment  the  enemy  has  retired,  they  recommence  their  fire. 
Supposing  the  infantry  formed  in  echelon  of  regimental 
squares,  and  that  the  time,  or  small  extent  of  the  squares 
would  not  admit  of  the  limbers,  &c.,  being  placed  inside, 
then  the  wagons  and  limbers  should  be  brought  up  Avith  their 
broadsides  to  the  front,  so  as  to  occupy,  if  possible,  the  space 
])etween  the  guns,  leaving  no  intervals  for  the  cavalry  to  cut 
through  :  the  prolonge  or  drag  ropes  might  also  offer  an  effec- 
tual momentary  impediment  to  them,  if  properly  stretched 
and  secured. 


[51 

PART  II.     SECTION  I. 


POINTING  GUNS  AND  HOWITZERS. 

1.  What  is  meant  by  the  term  pointing-  a  piece  ? 

To  point  a  piece,  is  to  give  it  such  a  direction  and  eleva- 
tion, or  depression,  that  the  shot  may  strike  the  object ;  and 
the  rule  (except  in  case  of  mortars)  is :  First  give  the  direc- 
tion and  then  the  elevation,  or  depression. 

2.  When  a  shot  is  fired  from  a  piece,  by  how  many  forces 
is  it  acted  on  ? 

By  three. — 1st.  The  impulsive  force  of  the  powder,  which 
urges  it  forward. 


POINTING   GUNS   AND   HOWITZERS.  39 

2d.   The  resistance  of  the  air,  which  tends  to  stop  it. 
3d.   The  force  of  gravity  which  causes  it  to  descend. 

3.  Why  is  it  necessary  to  give  a  certain  degree  of  eleva- 
tion to  a  piece  ? 

Because  a  shot  describes  under  the  action  of  the  above 
forces  a  curve  called  a  trajectory,  which  is  situated  below  the 
prolongation  of  the  axis  of  the  piece,  the  extent  of  its  de- 
parture from  this  line  increasing  with  the  time  of  flight. 
Therefore,  the  more  distant  the  object,  the  greater  must  be 
the  elevation  to  enable  the  shot  to  reach  it. 

4.  How  is  the  direction  given  to  a  gun  or  howitzer  ? 
By  directing  the  line  of  metal  upon  the  object. 

-21       5.   How  is  the  elevation  or  depression  given  ? 

■I  The  elevation  or  depression,  which  depends  upon  the 
charge,  the  distance,  and  the  position  of  the  object  above  or 
below  the  l)attery,  must  be  ascertained  from  tables  or  by  ex- 
periment, and  the  proper  degree  given  by  means  of  instru- 
ments. 

6.  When  will  the  object  be  struck  by  merely  directing  the 
line  of  metal  upon  it  ? 

But  in  one  case, — when  it  is  at  point-blank  distance. 

7.  How  must  the  line  of  metal  be  directed  for  all  ranges 
less  than  the  point-ldank  range,  in  order  to  strike  it  ? 

So  as  to  pass  below  the  object. 

8.  Give  a  simple  rule  for  firing  at  objects  within  point- 
blank. 

Add  to  the  point-blank  range  the  difference  between  it 
and  the  required  range,  set  the  scale  to  the  elevation  corres- 
ponding to  this  sum,  as  shown  by  tables  of  firing.  Then 
aim  the  gun  directly  at  the  object ;  now  apply  the  scale,  and 
observe  where  the  visual  ray  of  the  scale  strikes  the  ground, 
and  having  noted  this  point,  aim  the  gun  directly  at  it. 

9.  How  must  the  line  of  metal  be  directed  for  ranges 
greater  than  the  point-blank  range,  in  order  to  strike  it  ? 

Above  it. 

10.  When  the  line  of  metal  passes  over  the  object,  what  in- 
struments must  be  employed  for  giving  the  proper  elevation  ? 

The  gunner's  quadrant,  or  the  breech-sight. 

11.  How  is  the  quadrant  used  ? 

After  the  direction  has  been  given,  the  quadrant  is  applied, 

gg-i  either  by  its  longer  branch  to  the  face  of  the  piece,  or 

^   this  branch  is  run  into  the  bore  parallel  with  the  axis. 


40  HAND-BOOK   OF   ARTILLERY. 

or  it  amy  be  applied  to  the  upper  surface  of  the  lock-piece, 
making  the  allowance  clue  to  its  inclination  with  the  axis  of 
the  piece,  which  oug'ht  to  be  previously  determined,  and  the 
elevating-  screw  turned,  or  the  quoin  adjusted,  until  the  re- 
quired degree  is  indicated. 

12.  How  is  the  breech-sight  used? 

It  is  first  set  to  the  elevation  corresponding  to  the  dis- 
tance; it  is  then  applied  to  the  highest  point  of  metal  on  the 
base-ring,  and  by  the  elevating  screw,  or  quoin,  the  notch  of 
the  breech-sight,  the  highest  point  on  the  swell  of  the  muzzle, 
and  the  object,  are  brought  in  the  same  line. 

13.  What  is  a  line  thus  determined  called? 
An  artificial  line  of  sight. 

14.  In  the  absence  of  instruments,  how  may  the  elevation 
be  given? 

By  placing  one  or  more  fingers  of  the  left  hand  upon  the 
base-ring,  perpendicular  to  the  axis,  and  using  them  as  a 
breech-sight. 

Note. — In  practice,  It  is  Avell  to  fire  two  or  three  shot  to  deter- 
mine the  range  experimentally,  us  it  is  affected  by  divers  causes. 

15.  Should  the  line  of  metal  be  always  directed  in  the 
vertical  plane  passing  through  the  object? 

Ko;  as  in  practice  there  are  circumstances  (as,  for  in- 
stance, a  strong  wind  blowing  across  the  field  of  fire)  which 
will  cause  a  ball  to  deviate  from  this  plane,  it  follows  that  to 
strike  the  object,  in  such  a  case,  the  line  of  metal  must  be 
directed  to  its  right  or  left;  the  gunner  judging  of  the  dis- 
tance by  observing  the  striking  of  the  shot. 

16.  Is  the  line  of  metal  a  permanent  line  under  all  .^. 
circumstances  ?  ^ 

No ;  in  batteries  for  garrison  and  sea-coast  defense,  where 
the  platforms  are  fixed,  the  line  of  metal  may  be  considered 
as  nearly  permanent;  but  with  siege  guns,  which  are 
mounted  on  traveling  carriages,  the  wheels  of  which  are  lia- 
ble to  vary  in  position  from  unevenness  of  ground,  or  une- 
qual settling  in  newly  constructed  platforms,  this  line  is 
constantly  changing.  It  approximates  the  higher  wheel  in 
proportion  to  the  difference  of  level  between  the  wheels ;  and 
hence,  to  secure  the  greatest  accuracy  of  fire,  it  must  be  fre- 
quently verified;  the  old  marks,  if  not  found  correct,  should 
be  erased  and  new  ones  substituted. 


POINTING   GUNS   AND   HOWITZERS.  41 

17.  When  the  notches  or  sights,  which  are  sometimes 
made  npon  the  base-ring  and  swell  of  the  muzzle  in  field 
guns,  for  aiming  the  piece  are  used,  hovf  is  the  error  of  di- 
rection remedied  when  the  wheels  are  not  on  the  same  level  ? 

The  piece  must  be  aimed  more  or  less  to  that  side  which 
corresponds  to  the  higher  wheel,  according  to  the  inclination. 

18.  When  the  elevation  or  depression  has  once  been  as- 
certained for  any  given  distance,  how  may  the  firing  at  that 
distance  be  facilitated  ? 

By  noting  some  point  on  the  elevating  screw  or  quoin; 
adjusting  some  fixed  measurement  from  a  point  on  the  stock 
to  another  point  on  the  under  side  of  the  breech;  or  by  a 
chalk  mark  drawn  across  the  face  of  a  trunnion  and  its  cor- 
responding cheek. 

19.  When  firing  either  within  or  beyond  point-blank 
t^t--]  range,  m.ay  remarkable  points  on  the  ground  be  taken 

-'   advantage  of,  in  order  to  furnish  an  object  to  aim  at  ? 

Yes ;  some  fixed  object  may  often  present  itself  which  will 
serve  as  a  point  upon  which  to  direct  the  line  of  metal.  No 
means  should  be  neglected  that  may  tend  to  secure  accuracy 
of  aim ;  for  the  shot  that  is  thrown  away  by  carelessness  in 
pointing,  had  better  not  be  thrown  at  all. 
,  20.   How  may  precision  of  fire  be  secured  at  night  ? 

When  a  fixed  object  is  to  be  fired  at  by  night,  the  piece 
should  be  directed  during  the  day,  and  two  narrow  and  well- 
dressed  strips  of  wood  laid  on  the  inside  of  the  wheels,  and 
two  others  outside  of  the  trail  of  a  siege  carriage,  and  nailed 
or  screwed  to  the  platform.  In  case  of  a  barbette  carriage, 
the  traverse  wheels  should  be  chocked  in  the  proper  position. 
To  preserve  the  elevation,  measure  the  height  of  the  ele- 
vating screw  above  its  box,  or  take  the  measure  between  a 
point  on  the  gun,  and  another  on  the  stock ;  cut  a  stick  to 
this  length  and  adjust  the  gun  on  it  at  each  fire. 

21.    Should  night-firing  with  ^w?25  be  limited? 

Yes ;  it  should  be  limited  to  a  small  number  of  rounds,  as 
it  consumes  ammunition  to  little  advantage. 


42  HAND-BOOK    OF  ARTILLERY. 

PART  II.     SECTION  II. 


[56 


POINTING  MORTAKS. 

1.  What  is  the  rule  for  pointing  mortars  ? 
First  give  the  elevation,  and  then  the  direction. 

2.  How  is  the  elevation  given  ? 

By  applying  the  quadrant  to  the  face  of  the  piece,  and 
adjusting  the  quoin  until  the  required  number  of  degrees  is 
indicated. 

3.  Are  the  same  means  employed  for  giving  mortars  their 
direction  as  those  which  are  used  with  guns  and  howitzers  ? 

No ;  because  mortars  are  usually  masked  from  the  object 
to  be  struck,  by  an  epaulment  or  parapet. 

4.  To  what  are  all  the  methods  employed  for  giving  the 
direction  to  mortars  reduced  ? 

To  determining  practically  two  fixed  points,  which  shall 
be  in  line  with  the  piece  and  the  object,  and  sufficiently  near 
to  be  readily  distinguished  by  the  eye.  These  points 'being 
covered  by  the  plummet,  determine  a  vertical  plane,  which, 
when  including  the  line  of  metal,  becomes  the  plane  of  fire. 

5.  What  is  the  simplest  manner  of  directing  the  mortar  ? 
By  means  of  jwititing-ivires. 

6.  Describe  this  method. 

The  two  fixed  points  required  are  determined  by  planting 
two  wires  upon  the  epaulment,  one  upon  its  crest,  and  the  r;^^ 
other  about  a  yard  in  advance  of  it,  both  as  nearly  as  pos-  ^' 
sible  in  the  vertical  plane  passing  through  the  centre  of  the 
platform  and  the  object.  The  points  being  thus  established, 
the  direction  is  given  to  the  mortar,  by  causing  a  plummet 
held  in  rear  of  it,  to  cover  the  wires  and  the  line  of  metal. 

7.  In  what  respects  is  this  method  defective  1 

Both  in  accuracy  of  aim,  and  tlie  liability  of  the  wires 
being  deranged  by  the  shots  of  the  enemy  or  by  other  causes. 

8.  Give  a  better  method. 

By  means  of  j^ointing-stakes,  by  which  one  of  the  fixed 
points  is  established  upon  the  crest  of  the  parapet,  or  at  the 
foot  of  the  interior  slope,  and  another  in  rear  of  the  piece. 


POINTING   MORTARS.  43 

Then  by  a  cord  called  the  pointing-cord^  stretched  between 
these  two  points,  with  the  plummet  suspended  from  it,  a  ver- 
tical plane  is  determined  with  which  the  line  of  metal  is  made 
to  coincide. 

9.   How  are  the  stakes  planted  ? 

A  stake,  a  foot  or  more  in  length,  is  driven  into  the  crest 
of  the  epaulment,  as  nearly  as  practicable  in  the  vertical 
plane  of  fire  passing-  through  the  centre  of  the  platform ; 
sighting  by  this  stake,  another  long  one  is  planted,  three  or 
four  feet  in  front  of  it,  in  line  with  the  object.  To  this  stake 
the  cord  is  temporarily  attached,  and  stretched  by  the  first 
stake,  just  grazing  it,  to  a  point  on  the  ground,  one  yard  in 
rear  of  the  platform.  At  this  point  a  third  stake  is  driven. 
The  cord  is  removed  from  the  second  stake,  which  may  now 
be  taken  away,  and  permanently  attached  to  the  first. 
-Q-i       10.   How  is  the  mortar  directed  ? 

-'  The  cord  is  stretched  to  the  rear  stake,  and  as  near 
the  muzzle  band  as  possible,  with  the  left  hand,  while  the 
plummet  is  suspended  against  it  with  the  right ;  or  the  plum- 
met may  be  attached  to  the  cord,  just  in  rear  of  the  mortar. 

11.  How  does  it  appear  that  the  mortar  is  thus  ijroperly 
directed  ? 

Because  the  cord,  the  plummet,  and  the  line  of  metal,  are 
evidently  in  the  vertical  plane  of  fire. 

12.  What  is  done  in  case  the  shell  should  strike  constantly 
to  the  right  or  left  of  the  o])ject  ? 

The  pointing  cord  is  shifted  to  some  notch  on  the  pointing- 
hoard^  to  the  right  or  left,  until  the  shell  falls  at  the  desired 
point. 

13.  Describe  the  pointing-board. 

This  is  a  piece  of  wood  one  foot  long,  two  or  three  inches 
wide,  and  one  inch  thick,  having  a  notch  cut  in  the  middle  of 
one  side,  to  fit  on  the  stake  and  which  is  graduated  into  equal 
divisions  from  its  middle.  When  not  in  use,  the  pointing- 
cord  may  be  wound  on  it. 

14.  Describe  another  mode  of  planting  the  pointing- 
stakes. 

The  mortar  being  placed  upon  the  middle  of  the  platform, 
the  gunner  mounts  upon  it,  and  suspends  the  plummet  in 
front  of  the  muzzle,  covering  the  object.  Where  the  plum- 
met thus  suspended  cuts  the  crest  of  the  epaulment,  the  first 


44  HAND-BOOK   OF  AETILLERY. 

stake  is  driven.  A  second  stake  is  then  driven  in  tlie  same 
line  between  the  mortar  and  the  epanlment.  The  pointing- 
cord  being  attached  to  the  first  stake  and  stretched  to  the 
rear,  over  the  point  -where  the  plummet  touches  the  top  of 
the  mortar,  determines  the  point  on  the  ground  at  which  r^^^ 
the  rear  stake  is  driven.  The  first  stake  is  then  re-  '■ 
moved,  and  the  cord  attached  permanently  to  the  second 
stake. 

When  the  object  cannot  be  seen  from  the  mortar,  owing  to 
the  interposition  of  some  obstacle,  as  a  parapet  or  a  hill,  two 
persons  in  sight  of  each  other,  one  of  whom  can  see  the 
mortar,  and  the  other  the  object,  mnst  bv  successive  changes 
of  position,  place  themselves  in  the  vertical  plane  of  fire, 
and  at  the  points  thus  determined,  stakes  must  be  driven, 
one  of  which  will  serve  as  the  object. 

15.  How  may  precision  of  fiire  be  secured  at  night  with 
mortars  ? 

The  direction  is  preserved  by  nailing  or  screwing  two 
boards  to  the  platform  outside  of  the  cheeks ;  the  elevation  is 
marked  on  the  quoin,  or  the  quoin  may  be  nailed  in  the  pro- 
per position. 


[60 
PART  III. 


CHAEGES. 

1.  What  is  the  charge  of  a  piece  of  artillery  ? 
The  powder  with  which  it  is  loaded. 

2.  What  is  the  ordinary  service  charge  of  powder  for 
heavy  guns  ? 

One-fourth  the  weight  of  the  shot. 

3.  AVhat  is  it  for  firing  double  shot  ? 
One-sixth  the  weight  of  one  shot. 

4.  What  is  the  breaching  charge  ? 
One-third  the  weight  of  the  shot. 


CHARGES.  45 

5.  What  kind  of  charges  are  used  in  hot  shot  firing  ? 
Small  charges  from  one-fourth  to  one-sixth  the  weight  of 

the  ball. 

6.  For  what  reason  ? 

Because  balls  fired  with  small  velocities  si^lit  the  wood  in 
a  manner  which  is  favorable  to  its  burning;  with  a  great 
velocity  the  hole  closes,  the  ball  sinks  deep,  and,  deprived  of 
air,  chars  without  setting  fire  to  the  surrounding  wood. 

7.  To  what  depth  should  hot  shot  penetrate  ? 
Not  deeper  than  ten  or  twelve  inches. 

8.  In  ricochet  firing,  what  kind  of  charges  are  used  ? 
Light  charges  gencrall}^;  varying  from  tivo-thirds  to  one- 
eighth  of  the  ordinary  charge. 

9.  In  what  manner  are  the  charges  of  mortars  regulated  ? 
p-j  1       The  charges  vary  with  the  elevation  ;  or  if  the  eleva- 

-'  tion  be  fixed  at  any  particular  angle,  they  must  be  de- 
termined by  the  range. 

10.  What  are  the  charges  for  field  guns  and  field  how- 
itzers ? 

See  Table,  page  62. 

11.  What  are  the  charges  for  heavy  guns,  columbiads,  and 
howitzers  ? 

See  Table,  page  62. 

12.  What  are  the  greatest  charges  of  the  sea-coast,  siege, 
and  coohorn  mortars  ? 

See  Table,  page  62. 

13.  What  charge  is  used  for  projecting  fire  balls  from 
mortars  ? 

One  twenty -fifth  the  weight  of  the  ball. 


46 


HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 


Charges  for  Field-cuns  and  Field-howitzers.      [62 


KIND. 


FOR  GUNS. 


FOR  H0\V1TZER.S. 


For  shot, 

For  spher.  case  or  canister, 

-,„„  „i,„ii<,  f  Small  charge, 

^^^^^^^^^NLargecharJe, 


2.5 
1.5 


11.8. 

1.25 
1. 


lbs. 

2.5 
2.5 
3.25 


lbs. 

1.75 
2. 
2!  50 


lbs. 

0.75 
1.00 
1.00 


lbs. 

0.5 
0.5 
0.5 


Charges  for  Heavy  Guns,  Columbiads  and  Howitzers. 


GU.NS. 

COLUMBIADS. 

HOWITZKKS. 

u 

& 
^ 

1 

00 

.9 
0 

4 

a 
00 

tc 

^1 

Sea-Coast. 

^ 

lO-in. 

S-in. 

lbs. 
10.5 

lbs. 

8. 

lbs. 

8. 

lbs. 
6. 

lbs. 
4. 

lbs. 
14. 

lbs. 
8. 

lbs. 
4. 

lbs. 
2. 

lbs. 
12. 

lbs. 

8. 

Greatest  Charges  of  Sea-coast,  Siege  and  Coehorn 
Mortars. 


SEA-COAST. 

SIEGE. 

COEHOUN. 

STONE  MORTAR. 

00 

,13 

.S 
0 

.9 
0 

1 

CO 

0 

B 

^ 

lbs. 
20. 

lbs. 
10. 

lbs. 
4. 

lbs. 
2. 

Ib.'^. 
0.5 

lbs. 
1.5 

lbs. 
1. 

RANGES.  47 

63] 

PART  IV. 


RANGES. 

1.  What  is  meant  by  tlie  range  of  a  piece  of  artillery? 
The  distance  from  the  muzzle  to  the  first  graze. 

2.  How  may  the  range  of  a  projectile  be  extended? 
Either  by  raising  the  piece  to  a  higher  level,  or  by  giving 

its  axis  greater  elevation  within  certain  limits. 

3.  Define  2^oint-hlank  range. 

The  distance  from  the  muzzle  of  the  piece  to  that  point  in 
a  shot's  trajectory  where  it  cuts  the  prolongation  of  the  natu- 
ral line  of  sight,  a  second  time. 

4.  In  what  does  the  French  definition  for  point-blank 
range  differ  from  ours  ? 

It  requires  that  the  natural  line  of  sight  should  be  hori- 
zontal. 

5.  What  is  the  British  definition  for  point-blank  range  ? 
The  distance  from  the  muzzle  to  the  first  graze  when  the 

axis  of  the  piece  is  parallel  to  the  plane  upon  which  the  car- 
riage stands. 

6.  Explain  by  a  figure,  the  position  of,  and  relations  exist- 
ing between  the  line  of  sight,  the  line  of  fire  or  axis  of  the 
piece,  and  the  trajectory,  and  also  what  the  point-blank 
range  is. 

64] 


y 


ABcF,  tlie  line  passing  through  the  highest  points  of  the 
base  ring  and  swell  of  the  muzzle,  or  the  muzzle  band,  is 
called,  the  natural  line  of  sight.     EPcG,  is  the  axis  of  the 


48  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

piece  or  line  of  fire;  the  curved  line,  PgD,  described  by  the 
projectile,  is  called  the  trajectory,  and  is  entirely  below  the 
line  of  fire,  in  consequence  of  the  action  of  the  force  of  gra- 
vity giving  the  projectile  a  downward  tendency.  The  point 
D  is  called  the  jjoint-hlanJc,  and  its  distance  from  the  mouth 
of  the  piece,  the  j^oint-blank  range. 

7.  Mention  some  of  the  causes  which  vary  the  point-blank 
range. 

The  form  of  the  cannon ;  the  weight  or  force  of  the  charge ; 
the  diameter  and  weight  of  the  projectile;  and  the  inclina- 
tion of  the  line  of  sight  to  the  horizon. 

8.  Why  has  the  form  of  the  cannon  an  influence  on  the 
point-blank  range? 

Because  as  the  difference  between  the  diameter  of  the 
breech  and  muzzle  become  greater,  the  angle  of  sight, 
BcP^=GcF  (sec  fig.)  increases,  and  the  point-blank  D  is 
removed  farther  off;  on  the  contrary,  as  the  diameters  ap- 
proach to  an  equality,  the  point-blank  approaches  the  piece. 
Within  a  certain  angle,  or  when  there  is  no  angle  of  sight, 
as  is  the  case  with  some  old  howitzers  in  which  the  line  of 
sight  is  parallel  to  the  axis  of  the  bore,  there  will  be  no  r/^^ 
point-blank,  as  the  trajectory  will  be  constantly  below  the  ^ 
line  of  sight. 

9.  What  influence  has  the  charge  on  the  point-blank 
range  ? 

An  increase  of  the  charge  determines  a  more  distant  point- 
blank  ;  its  diminution  produces  a  contrary  effect :  but  beyond 
a  charge  equal  to  one-third  the  weight  of  the  ball,  the  in- 
crease of  range  is  inconsiderable,  and  the  force  of  the  recoil 
becomes  very  great. 

10.  How  do  the  diameter  and  weight  of  the  projectile 
affect  the  range  ? 

As  the  ball  increases  in  size  and  density,  it  will  overcome 
with  more  ease  the  resistance  of  the  air. 

11.  Does  the  inclination  of  the  line  of  sight  to  the  hori- 
zon have  much  effect  on  the  point-blank  range  ? 

Only  when  this  inclination  is  very  considerable.  For  the 
ordinary  inclination,  from  0°  to  15°,  above  or  below  the  hori- 
zon, the  difference  may  be  wholly  neglected. 

12.  What  is  the  effect  on  the  point-blank  range  of  firing 
upwards  under  a  large  angle  ? 


RANGES.  49 

The  action  of  the  weight  being  nearly  directly  opposed  to 
the  impulsive  force,  the  trajectory  becomes  compressed  and 
the  point-blank  distance  diminishes.  The  contrary  effect 
obtains  in  firing  downwards  under  a  similar  angle,  as  the 
weight  and  the  force  then  act  in  nearly  the  same  direction. 

13.  Why  may  the  point-blank  be  considered  constant  for 
the  same  calibre  ? 

The  dimensions,  charges,  and  weights  of  projectiles,  being 
constant,  and  the  inclination  of  the  natural  line  of  sight,  ex- 
PP-,   cept  in  a  very  few  cases,  being  comprised  between  0° 

•^  and  15°,  it  follows  that  for  the  same  calibre,  the  point- 
blank  may  be  considered  constant,  and  may  serve  as  a  point 
of  reference  in  firing  at  different  distances. 

14.  What  is  the  extreme  range  of  a  piece  of  artillery? 
The  distance  from  the  piece  to  where  the  projectile  finally 

rests. 

15.  For  a  given  velocity  what  effect  has  an  increase  of 
the  angle  of  fire  on  the  range? 

It  increases  with  the  angle  of  fire  up  to  a  certain  limit, 
beyond  which  it  diminishes. 

16.  What  angle  gives  the  greatest  range  in  vacuo  ? 
Forty-five  degrees. 

17.  When  will  this  angle  give  the  maximum  range  in 
practice  ? 

Only  for  feeble  charges,  and  very  heavy  projectiles. 

18.  How  is  the  angle  of  greatest  range  in  practice  affected 
by  a  change  in  the  velocity  and  size  of  the  projectile? 

It  seems  to  diminish  as  the  velocity  is  increased,  and  as  the 
ball  is  reduced.  For  the  musket  the  angle  of  maximum 
range  varies  from  28°  to  30° ;  and  is  nearly  42°  for  mortars. 

19.  Under  wliat  angle  is  a  mortar  usually  fired? 

Under  the  constant  angle  of  45°,  and  the  charge  is  varied 
according  to  the  range  required. 

20.  AVhat  are  the  advantages  of  this  practice  ? 
Economy  of  ammunition;  the  recoil  being  inconsiderable, 

the  mortar  and  its  bed  receive  but  little  strain ;  the  ranges 
are  more  uniform,  and  the  eflect  of  a  slight  error  in  the  an- 
gle of  fire  is  less  than  with  any  other. 
P^-,       21.   Is  the  mortar  ever  fired  at  any  other  angle  than 

"'J    45c 7 

Yes  ;  sometimes  at  60°. 


60  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

22.  When  is  the  mortar  fired  under  an  angle  of  60°  ? 
When  the  battery  is  situated  very  near  the  object  assailed, 

and  it  is  desired  that  the  shells  may  fall  upon  the  magazines 
of  the  besieged.  It  is  evident  that  projectiles  the  higher 
they  are  thrown  up  acquire  more  velocity  in  falling,  besides 
Btrildng  the  object  more  directly  and  with  increased  violence. 

23.  Under  what  angle  are  stone-mortars  usually  fired  ? 

Under  an  angle  of  60*^,  and  sometimes  of  75°,  that  in  fall- 
ing from  a  great  height,  the  stones  may  have  the  maximum 
force  of  percussion. 

24.  Under  what  angle  should  grenades  be  thrown  from 
stone  mortars  ? 

About  33° ;  otherwise  they  will  be  buried  in  the  earth,  and 
their  fragments  will  not  be  sufljciently  destructive. 

25.  When  a  gun  or  howitzer  is  aimed  with  the  line  of 
metal  horizontal,  what  is  the  elevation  equal  to? 

The  natural  angle  of  sight  or  dispart. 

26.  How  is  the  time  of  flight  for  siege  mortars  at  an  ele- 
vation of  45°  determined  ? 

It  is  nearly  equal  to  the  square  root  of  the  range  in  feet 
divided  by  four. 


RANOES* 


51 


68] 


Ranges  of  Field  Guns  and  Howitzers. 


KIND   OF  PIECE. 

Pow- 
der. 

Ball. 

Eleva- 
tion. 

Range 

Remarks. 

6-Pounder  Field  Gun. 

lbs. 
1.25 

Shot. 

deg.  min 
0 

1 
2 

\ 
5 

yds. 

318 

647 

867 

1138 

1256 

1523 

P.  B.  Range 

1. 

Sph.  case. 

2 

2    30 

3 

650 

840 

1050 

Time  of  flight  2" 
do.          3" 
do.          4" 

12-Pounder  Field  Gun. 

2.5 

Shot. 

0 

1 

1    30 

2 

3 

I 

347 
662 
785 
909 
1269 
1455 
1663 

P.  B.  Range. 

1.5 

Sph.  case. 

1 

1  45 

2  30 

670 
950 
1250 

Time  2  seconds. 

::  i   ;; 

12-Pounder  Field 
Howitzer. 

1. 

Shell. 

0 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 

195 
539 
640 
847 
975 
1072 

0.75 

Sph.  case. 

2  15 

3  15 
3    45 

485 

715 

1050 

Time  2  seconds. 
"     3 
"     4        " 

24-Poiinder  Field 
Howitzer. 

2. 

Shell. 

0 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 

295 
.516 
793 
976 
1272 
1322 

1.75 
2. 

Sph.  case. 

2 
3 

5    30 
3    30 

600 

800 

1050 

880 

Time  2  seconds. 
"     3      /" 
"     4 
"      3 

32-Pounder  Field 
Howitzer. 

2.5 

Shell. 

0 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 

290 
531 
779 
1029 
1203 
1504 

2.5 

Sph.  case. 

3 

800 

Time  2^  sec'ds. 

52 


HAND-BOOK   OF   ARTILLERY. 


Ranges  of  Field  Guns  and  Howitzers — Contd.      l^^ 


KI.VD   OF  PIECE. 

Pow- 
der. 

Ball. 

Eleva- 
tion. 

Range- 

Remarks. 

Mountain  Howitzer. 

O.o 

Shell. 

cleg,  min 
0 
] 
2 

2    30 
3 
4 
5 

yds. 

"170 
300- 
392 
r.00 

(;37 

785 
1005 

Time  2  seconda. 
Time  3  sccondH. 

0.5 

Sph.  case. 

0 

2    30 
3 

4 

4     30 

150 
450 
500 
700 
800 

Time  2  seconds. 

Time  2i  scc'da. 
Time  3  seconds 

0.5 

Canister. 

4  to  50 

250 

Ranges  of  Heavy  Artillery. 


KIND  OF  PIECE. 

Pow- 
der. 

Ball. 

Eleva- 
tion. 

Range 

Retnarks. 

lbs. 

deg.  miu 

yds. 

16-Pdr.   Siege   and  Garri- 

4.5 

Shot, 

1 

641 

son    Gun    on    Barbette 

" 

1     30 

800 

Point  Blank. 

Carriage. 

,, 

0 
3 

4 

950 
1256 
1450 

" 

5 

1592 

24-Pdr.   Siege  and  Garri- 

6. 

Shot. 

0 

412 

son  Gun  on  Siege  Car- 

" 

1 

842 

riage. 

1    30 
2 

3 
4 

953 
1147 
1417 
1666 
1901 

Point  Blank. 

8. 

" 

1 

3 
4 
5 

883 
1170 
1454 
1639 
1834 

32-Pdr.  Sea- Coast  Gun  on 

(i. 

Shot. 

1     45 

900 

Barbette  Carriage. 

8. 

;; 

1 

1    30 
1    35 

0 

3 

4 
5 

713 

800 
900 
1100 
1433 
1684 
1922 

10.G7 

;; 

1 
2 
3 

780 
1155 
1517 

RANGES. 


53 


70] 


Eanges  of  Heavy  Artillery — Continued. 


KIND   OF  PIECE. 

Pow- 
der. 

Ball. 

Eleva- 
tion. 

Range 

Remarks. 

lbs. 

deg. 

min 

yds. 

42-Pdr.  Sea-Coast  Gun  on 

10.5 

Shot. 

1 

775 

Barbette  Carriage. 

,< 

1 
2 

30 

860 
1010 

14. 

3 

4 
5 

1 
o 

3 
4 
5 

1300 
1600 
1955 
770 
1128 
1380 
16S7 
1915 

S-in.    Siege    Howitzer   on 

4. 

45-lb.  Shell 

0 

251 

Time    §  sec'ds. 

Siege  Carnage. 

1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
12 

30 

435 
618 
720 
992 
1241 
2280 

;:  «  :: 

"     3 

"      4 

"     5         " 

24-Pdr.  Iron  Howitzer  on 

2. 

17-lb.  Shell 

0 

295 

a  Flank  Casemate  Car- 

" 

1 

516 

riage. 

" 

5 

1322 

H 

Sph.  case. 

2 

600 

Time  2  aeconda. 

5 

30 

1050 

"      4 

2. 

3 

30 

880 

"     a       " 

8-in.   Sea-Coast  Howitzer 

4. 

45-lb.  Shell 

1 

405 

on  a  Barbette  Carriage. 

6. 

8. 

;; 

2 
3 

4 
5 
1 
2 
3 
4 
5 
1 
o 

3 
4 
5 

652 

875 

1110 

1300 

572 

826 

947 

1168 

1463 

646 

909 

1190 

1532 

1800 

10-in.  Sea-Coast  Howitzer 

12. 

90-lb.  Shell 

1 

580 

on  Barbette  Carriage. 

" 

2 

891 

Time  3    sec'ds. 

K 

3 
3 

4 
5 

30 

1185 
1300 
1426 
1650 

"      4 
"     6 

54  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

Ranges  of  Heavy  ARTiLhv.RY— Continued. 


[71 


KIND   OF  PIECE. 

Pow- 
der. 

Ball. 

Eleva- 
tion. 

Range 

Remarks. 

lbs. 

deg.  mill 

Yds. 

8-in  Colurubiad  on  Bar- 

10. 

65-lb.  Shot 

1 

'932 

Axis  of  gun  16 

bette  Carriage, 

" 

2 

IIH) 

feet  above  the 

" 

3 

1402 

water. 

" 

4 

l(i08 

" 

5 

1847 

6 

2010 

'« 

8 

2397 

Shot    ceased    to 

" 

10 

2834 

ricochet  on  the 

" 

15 

3583 

water. 

«» 

20 

4322 

" 

25 

4875 

" 

27 

4481 

15. 

" 

27    30 

4812 

10. 

50-lb.  shell 

1 

3 

4 

5 

6 

8 

10 

15 

20 

25 

27 

919 
1209 
1409 
1697 
1813 
1985 
2203 
2657 
3556 
3716 
4387 
4171 

15. 

" 

27    30 

4468 

10-in.  Columbiad  on  Bar- 

18. 

128-lb.  sht. 

0 

394 

Axis  of  gun  16 

bette  Carriage. 

1 

752 

feet  above  the 

« 

2 

1002 

water. 

'< 

3 

1230 

'< 

4 

1570 

" 

5 

1814 

" 

6 

2037 

Shot    ceased    to 

<i 

8 

2519 

ricochet  on  the 

" 

10 

2777 

water. 

" 

15 

3525 

" 

20 

4020 

" 

25 

4304 

" 

30 

4761 

" 

35 

5433 

20. 

" 

39    15 

5654 

12. 

lOO-lbsh'll 

1 
o 

3 

4 
5 

800 
1012 
1184 
1443 
1604 

18. 

" 

0 

448 

RANGES. 


55 


72] 


Ranges  of  Heavy  Artillery — Continued. 


KI-VD   OF  PIECE. 

Pow- 
der. 

Ball. 

Eleva- 
tion. 

Range 

Remarks. 

lbs. 

deg.  min 

yds. 

10-in.  Columbiad  on  Bar- 

18. 

lOO-lb.  shll. 

1 

747 

bette  Carriage — Cont'd. 

;''' 

2 
3 

4 

5 

6 

8 

10 

15 

20 

25 

30 

1100 
1239 
1611 
1865 
2209 
2489 
2848 
3200 
3885 
4150 
4651 

" 

35 

4828 

Time  35  sec'ds. 

13-ln.  Sea-Coast  Mortar. 

20. 

200-lb.  shll. 

45 

4325 

Time  40  sec'ds. 

10-in.  Sea-Coast  Mortar. 

iO. 

9»-lb.  shll. 

45 

4250 

Time  36  sec'ds. 

10-in.  Siege  Monar. 

1. 

90-1  b.  shll. 

45 

300 

Time   6.5  sec'ds. 

L5 

" 

" 

700 

"     12.       " 

2. 

" 

" 

1000 

"     14.       " 

2.5 

" 

" 

1300 

"     16.       '• 

3. 

" 

" 

1600 

"     18.       " 

3.5 

" 

" 

1800 

"     19.       " 

4. 

" 

" 

2100 

"     21.       " 

Ibsoz. 

8-in.  Siege  Mortar. 

0    8 

45-lb.  shll. 

45 

209 

Time  6.75  sec'ds. 

0  12 

" 

" 

376 

"     9. 

1    0 

" 

" 

6.50 

"   11.5       " 

1    4 

" 

" 

943 

"   14. 

1     8 

" 

" 

1318 

"   16.5       " 

1  12 

" 

" 

1522 

"   18.5       " 

2    0 

" 

" 

1837 

"   20.5       " 

oz. 

24-Pounder  Coehorn 

0.5 

17-lb.  shll. 

45 

25 

Mortar. 

1. 

1.5 

1.75 

2. 

2.75 

4. 

6. 

8. 

;; 

;'; 

68 
104 
143 
165 
260 
422 
900 
1200 

lbs. 

Stones, 

Stone  Mortar. 

1.5 

120  lbs. 

60 

(150 
]  to 
(250 

1 

f  15  6-pdr. 
)    shells. 

33 

50 

Fuze  15  seconds. 

to  150 

Note.— Fire-balls,  according  to  their  size,  are  fired  from  mortars  of  corres- 
ponding calibres.  With  a  charge  of  ONE  TWENTY-FIFTH  its  weight,  the  ball 
is  thrown  600  to  700  yards. 


-56  HAND-BOOK    OF  ARTILLERY. 

[73 
PART  V. 


RICOCHET. 

1.  What  is  understoocl  by  ricochet  firing? 

That  ohtained  hy  firing  a  piece  at  very  small  angles  of 
elevation,  hy  Avhicli  means  the  projectile  wliicli  falls  on  ground 
of  ordinary  firmness  at  an  angle  not  greater  than  10°,  or 
upon  ^vater  at  4°  or  5°,  will  make  one  or  more  bounds.  In 
this  case  the  projectile  is  said  to  ricochet. 

2.  What  is  the  object  of  ricochet  firing  ? 

To  enfilade  a  face  of  the  enemy's  work,  which  is  effected 
by  causing  a  projectile  to  bound  along  the  terreplein  of  the 
face  with  the  view  of  annoying  his  cannoneers,  and  dismount- 
ing his  pieces.  It  is  employed  also  in  harassing  an  enemy, 
when  formed  or  in  the  act  of  forming  behind  a  rising  ground 
or  other  obstacle,  taking  post  in  a  wood,  &c. ;  and  in  enfi- 
lading a  line  of  troops. 

3.  What  are  the  peculiar  advantages  of  this  fire  ? 

In  being  able  to  reach  objects  which  cannot  be  reached 
by  direct  fire,  on  account  of  intervening  obstacles. 

4.  In  enfilading  a  face  of  an  enemy's  work,  what  is  the 
object  to  be  fired  at? 

Usually  some  point  of  the  interior  crest  of  the  parapet 
which  covers  a  flank  of  the  terreplein  to  be  reached. 

5.  What  is  the  point  of  fall  1 

The  point  of  the  terreplein  which  is  first  struck  by  r,~^ 
the  projectile,  after  having  grazed  the  interior  crest.  ^ 

6.  What  is  the  angle  of  fall  ? 

It  is  the  angle  made  at  the  point  of  fall  by  the  tangent  to 
the  trajectory  with  a  horizontal  line  in  the  plane  of  fire. 

7.  How  does  the  angle  of  fall  compare  with  that  of  elevation  ? 
It  is  greater. 

'    8.    Upon  what  do  the  charge  and  elevation  depend  ? 

Upon  the  distance  of  the  object  from  the  battery;  upon 
the  difference  of  level  between  these  points ;  the  distance  of 
the  desired  point  of  fall  from  the  parapet ;  the  height  of  the 
parapet,  &c. 

9.  If  the  embrasure  be  such  that  the  object  is  masked, 
how  is  the  piece  pointed  ? 


KICOCHET.  67 

The  direction  must  be  given,  as  with  the  mortar,  by  the 
plummet ;  this  is  held  by  the  person  who  points,  in  such  a 
manner  as  to  cover  both  the  line  of  metal  and  the  object. 
The  elevation  is  then  given  by  the  quadrant. 

10.  What  is  the  maximum  angle  of  elevation  in  ricochet 
firing  ? 

Against  troops  it  should  seldom  exceed  3°  above  the  sur- 
face of  the  ground  occupied  by  them.  Against  fortresses, 
forts,  and  fortified  lines,  it  varies  from  3°  to  9°  above  the 
horizontal. 

11.  At  what  distance  from  the  object  should  the  ricochet 
battery  be  placed  ? 

Never  at  a  greater  distance  than  600  yards. 

12.  In  enfilading  a  work,  how  should  the  ricochet  firing 
be  conducted  ? 

The  projectile  should  be  made  to  graze  the  parapet  while 
ypjl  in  the  descending  branch  of  the  trajectory ;    and  this 

-'  must  be  efi"ected  by  regulating  the  charges  and  elevating 
or  depressing  the  piece  until  the  shot  is  seen  to  fall  just  over 
the  interior  crest  of  the  parapet.  Light  charges  are  gene- 
rally used,  varying  from  two-thirds  to  one-eighth  of  the  ordi- 
nary charge. 

13.  What  pieces  are  best  adapted  for  ricochet  fire  ? 
Those  which  throw  heavy  shells,  for,  if  used  to  enfilade  a 

work,  the  shells  lodge  and  explode  in  the  traverses,  and  ren- 
der the  guns  more  liable  to  be  dismounted,  and  their  detach- 
ments put  hors  de  comhat. 

14.  What  determines  the  nature  of  the  ricochet? 

The  angle  of  fall :  it  is  flattened  when  this  angle  does  not 
exceed  Q^,  and  curvated  when  it  is  between  10^  and  12°.  In 
the  first  of  these  fires,  the  velocities  are  great,  and  in  the 
second  small. 

15.  What  are  the  charges  for  a  flattened  ricochet  for  siege 
guns  at  an  angle  of  about  3°  ? 

See  Table,  page  76. 

16.  What  are  the  charges  for  a  flattened  ricochet  for  siege 
howitzers  at  an  angle  of  about  3*^  ? 

See  Table,  page  76  ? 

17.  What  are  the  charges  for  a  curvated  ricochet  for  a 
siege  howitzer  at  an  angle  of  about  10°  ? 

See  Table,  page  76. 
3* 


58 


HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY* 


[76 


Chl\rges  for  a  Flattened  Ricochet  for  Siege-Guns. 


DISTANCE. 

ELEVATIO.V. 

CHARGE. 

660  yards. 
550       " 
440       " 
330      " 

2°  45' 
3° 

3°  l.V 
30  35' 

1-12  Avei^rht  of  ball. 

1-15         '' 

1-20 

1-30 

Charges  for  a  Flattened  Ricochet  for  Siege  Howitzers. 


DISTANCE. 

ELEVATION. 

CHARGE. 

550  yards. 
440      " 
330      " 
220       " 

P    45' 

2°  15' 
2=^  15' 
2°  45' 

3  lbs. 

2  lbs.  3  oz. 
1  lb.  12  oz. 
1  lb.     2  oz. 

Charges  for  a  Curvated  Ricochet  for  Siege  Howitzers. 


550  yards. 
440       " 
330       " 
220       " 


ELEVATION. 


7°  30' 


1  lb. 4  oz. 
1  lb.  1  oz. 

14  oz. 

10  oz. 


The  height  of  the  object  above 
the  level  of  the  battery  being 
supposed  to  be  20  feet. 


RECOIL,  6& 

77] 

PART  VI. 


RECOIL. 

1.  What  is  meant  by  the  recoil  of  a  piece  of  artillery  ? 
The  retrograde  motion  impressed  upon  cannon  by  the  dis- 
charge is  termed  the  recoil. 

2.  What  causes  the  recoil  of  a  piece  ? 

The  gas  produced  by  the  ignition  of  the  charge  in  the 
bore,  expanding  with  equal  force  in  every  direction,  finds 
only  two  ways  of  escape  (the  muzzle  and  vent) ;  the  pres- 
sure upon  these  points  will  therefore  cease,  while  it  will  be 
proportionally  increased  upon  the  parts  directly  opposite, 
that  is,  the  breech  and  the  lower  part  of  the  first  reinforce, 
producing  in  the  first  case  the  recoil,  and  in  the  other,  indi- 
rectly, the  dipping  of  the  muzzle. 

3.  How  far  does  a  gun  usually  recoil  ? 

This  depends  entirely  upon  the  nature  and  inclination  of 
the  ground  upon  which  the  carriage  stands,  the  situation  of 
the  trunnions,  angle  of  elevation,  comparative  weight  of  the 
gun  and  carriage,  and  upon  the  strength  of  the  charge. 

4.  What  proportion  does  the  velocity  of  the  recoil  of  a 
piece  bear  to  that  of  a  ball  ? 

The  proportion  is  inversely  as  their  weights,  or  their 
masses. 

5.  What  proportion  exists  between  the  pressure  acting 
upon  the  part  of  the  bore  of  a  piece  directly  opposite  the 
vent,  and  that  which  occasions  the  recoil  ? 

yg-]       As  the  square  of  the  diameter  of  the  vent  is  to  the 
-'   square  of  that  of  the  shot. 

6.  Has  the  recoil  any  effect  upon  the  flight  of  the  pro- 
jectile? 

No  appreciable  eflfect,  the  shot  being  expelled  from  the 
gun  before  it  has  recoiled  a  fraction  of  an  inch. 

7.  What  are  the  principal  inconveniences  arising  from  the 
recoil  of  guns  ? 

The  necessity  of  running  up  the  gun  after  every  discharge, 


60  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

and  consequent  fatigue  to  the  men  and  loss  of  time ;  it  also 
necessitates  that  a  greater  breadth  should  be  given  to  the 
terreplein  of  a  work. 

8.  What  causes  the  muzzle  of  a  piece  of  artilleiy  to  dip 
when  fired  ? 

The  sudden  pressure  of  the  gas  acting  upon  the  portion  of 
the  first  reinforce  oppofutc  to  the  vent,  causes  the  piece  to 
strike  downwards  upon  the  elevating  screw  or  quoin,  and  the 
reaction  to  make  the  muzzle  dip. 

9.  What  influence  has  the  position  of  the  axis  of  the  trun- 
nions in  respect  to  that  of  the  bore  upon  the  recoil  ? 

If  the  axis  of  the  trunnions  be  below  that  of  the  piece,  the 
pressure  of  the  breech  upon  the  carriage  will  increase  as  the 
distance  between  the  axes  increases ;  and  from  this  pressure 
there  will  arise  a  friction  upon  the  ground  which  will  diminish 
the  recoil.  On  the  contrary,  if  the  axis  of  the  trunnions,  be 
above  that  of  the  piece,  the  breech  will  have  an  upward 
tendency,  the  recoil  will  be  increased,  but  the  carriage,  and 
particularl}^  the  axletree,  will  be  subjected  to  less  strain. 
Hence,  the  recoil  will  be  transmitted  directly  to  the  j-^q 
trunnions,  if  their  axis  (as  in  our  service)  be  situated  in  '■ 
the  same  plane  with  the  axis  of  the  piece.  The  size  of  the 
trunnions  is  made  proportional  to  the  force  of  the  recoil. 

10.  Does  the  position  of  the  trunnions  with  reference  to 
the  centre  of  gravity  of  the  piece  influence  the  recoil  ? 

Yes;  in  cannon  fired  horizontally,  or  imder  very  small 
angles,  the  portion  in  rear  of  the  trunnions  is  heavier  than 
that  in  front ;  an  arrangement  which  increases  the  pressure 
of  the  trail  on  the  ground  so  as  to  diminish  the  recoil.  But 
in  pieces  fired  under  large  angles,  the  trunnions  are  placed 
in  rear  of  the  center  of  gravity,  for  the  purpose  of  increasing 
the  ease  of  pointing. 


WINDAGE,  61 


80] 

PART  VII, 


WINDAGE. 

1.  What  is  meant  by  ivindasre? 

The  (lijfference  between  the  diameter  of  the  projectile  and 
that  of  the  bore. 

2.  Is  it  absolutely  necessaiy  to  allow  windage  ? 

Yes,  in  order  to  make  an  allowance  for  a  piece  becoming 
foul,  the  expansion  of  shot  by  heat,  the  incrustation  of  rust, 
and  for  the  tin  straps  of  fixecl  ammunition. 

3.  What  advantages  are  derived  from  reducing  the  wind- 
age ? 

An  increase  in  the  accuracy  of  fire ;  a  more  extensive 
range,  or  an  equal  range  with  a  smaller  charge,  as  there  is 
less  loss  of  gas  ;  and  less  injury  to  the  surface  of  the  bore. 

4.  Why  should  the  bore  suffer  less  injury  by  a  diminution 
of  the  windage  ? 

Because  in  proportion  to  the  decrease  of  windage  there 
will  be  less  space  for  the  reflections  of  the  shot  along  the 
bore,  and  consequently  less  injurious  power  exercised  upon  it. 

5.  What  is  the  loss  of  velocity  by  a  given  windage  pro- 
portional to  ? 

It  is  directly  as  the  windage,  and  inversely  as  the  diameter 
of  the  bore  very  nearly. 


62 


HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 


[81 

6.    What  is  the  loss  of  velocity  by  the  windage  of  the 
ball  ? 


« 

Initial  velocity  of  ball. 

^n 

t 

^^ 

p* 

CJ 

1 

g'S 

KIND   OF  GUN. 

^ 

'O^ 

c  - 

s 

a 

II 

Mi 

!li 

^ 

r^ 

lbs. 

feet. 

feet. 

feet. 

per  cent. 

32-pdr.  Sea-Coast, 

4 

1444 

1271 

173 

12 

24-pdr.  Siege.                      ^ 

4 
6 

1600 
1890   • 

1433 
1723 

167 
167 

10 
9 

( 

2 

1617 

1444 

173 

11 

12-pdr.  25  calibres,             < 

3 

1915 

1742 

173 

9 

( 

4 

2124 

1951 

173 

8 

( 

2 

1528 

1370 

im 

10 

12-pdr.  Field,  16  calibres,  < 

3 

1793 

1635 

158 

9 

( 

4 

1992 

1834 

158 

8 

6  pdr.  Field, 

1.5 

1734 

1560 

174 

10 

7.   What  windag-e  is  allowed  to  guns 


IRON. 

BRASS. 

Sea-Coast. 

Siege  and  Garrison. 

Field. 

42 

32 

24 

18 

12 

12 

6 

Inches. 
0.16 

inches. 
0.15 

inches. 
0.14 

inches. 
0.13 

inches. 
0.10 

inches. 
0.10 

inches. 
0.9 

WINDAGE. 


63 


82] 


8.   What  windage  is  allowed  to  columbiads  and  howitzers  ? 


Columbians. 

HOWITZERS. 

Iron. 

Brass. 

Iron. 

Sea-Coast. 

Siege  and 
Garrison. 

Field. 

Moun- 
tain. 

.9 
o 

.g 

00 

a" 
o 

.g 

CD 

.s 

CO 

u 
p< 

1 

in. 
0.12 

in. 
0.12 

in. 
0.12 

in. 
0.13 

in. 
0.13 

in. 
0.14 

in. 
0.15 

in. 
0.14 

in. 
OlO 

in. 
0.10 

9.   What  amount  of  windage  is  allowed  to  mortars  ? 


IRON. 

BRASS. 

i 

IRON. 

Heavy. 

Light. 

Stone 
Mortar. 

Coehom 
24-pdr. 

Eprouvette. 

inches. 
0.13 

inches. 
0.13 

inches. 
0.13 

inches. 
0.12 

inches. 

inches. 
0.14 

inches. 
0.025 

64  HAND-BOOK   OF   ARTILLERY. 

[83 
PART  VIII. 


GUNPOWDER. 

1.  What  are  the  ingredients  in  gunjwwder? 
Saltpetre,  charcoal  and  sulphur. 

2.  AVhat  are  the  proportions  ? 

In  the  United  States,  75  to  7G  saltpetre,  14  to  15  charcoal, 
and  10  sulphur. 

Eug-laud,  75  Saltpetre,  15    Charcoal,  10    Sulphur. 

France,     75         "  12^        "  12^ 

Prassia,    75         "  13;^         "  ll| 

3.  What  is  the  combustible  ingredient  ? 
Charcoal. 

4.  AYhat  is  the  use  of  the  saltpetre  ? 

It  furnishes  the  oxygen  necessary  to  support  a  rapid  com- 
bustion, and  to  change  the  whole  mass  into  gas. 

5.  What  is  the  use  of  sulphur  ? 

It  adds  consistency  to  the  mixture  and  intensity  to  the 
flame,  besides  rendering  the  powder  less  liable  to  absorb 
moisture. 

6.  On  what  does  the  quality  of  gunpowder  depend  ? 

On  the  intimate  mixture  anGbq)roper  proportions  and  purity 
of  the  ingredients. 

7.  In  what  does  the  manufacture  of  gunpowder  consist  ? 
In  pulverizing  the  ingredients,  incorporation,  compression, 

granulation,  drying,  glazing  and  dusting. 

8.  Explain  the  method  of  making  gunpowder  by  the  rr,  < 
pounding  mill.  ^ 

The  charcoal  in  small  pieces  is  first  placed  in  the  mortars, 
with  a  quantity  of  water,  and  pounded  for  half  an  hour; 
after  which  the  saltpetre  and  then  the  sulphur,  previously 
pulverized  and  sifted,  are  put  in,  and  the  whole  well  mixed 
with  the  hand ;  it  is  then  poutided  in  the  mortars,  and  at  the 
end  of  each  hour,  the  composition  is  passed  from  each  mor- 
tar into  the  next.  At  the  sixth  or  eighth  change,  add  half  a 
pint  of  water ;  it  is  then  pounded  two  hours  without  changing 


GUNPOWDER.  65 

the  mortars,  in  order  that  it  may  form  into  cake.  It  is  then 
partially  dried,  and  grained  in  a  graining-  sieve,  or  passed 
between  wooden  rollers.  The  grains  are  then  sifted  to  sepa- 
rate those  which  are  too  coarse  and  too  fine,  and  also  to 
separate  from  each  other  the  different  kinds  of  grains  for 
cannon,  musket,  and  rifie  powder.  It  is  then  glazed  in  large 
glazing  barrels,  which  "make  15  or  20  revolutions  in  a  minute. 
A  charge  of  500  lbs.  is  thus  treated  for  about  twenty-four 
hours.  It  is  then  dried  either  in  the  open  air,  or  in  a  drying 
house.  If  in  the  open  air,  when  the  sun  is  too  hot,  the  pow- 
der should  be  covered  to  prevent  the  loss  of  sulphur.  It  is 
then  dusted,  by  being  sifted  in  fine  sieves,  or  through  bolting 
cloths. 

9.  What  other  machines  besides  the  pounding  mill  are 
used  in  pulverizing  and  incorporating  the  ingredients  of  gun- 
powder ? 

Rolling  barrels,  and  the  cylinder  or  rolling  mill. 

10.  What  advantage  is  gained  by  the  use  of  the  rolling 
barrels  ? 

It  lessens  the  duration  and  danger  of  pounding  in  the  mor- 
Q^i  tars.  After  the  ingredients  are  pulverized  and  mixed  in 
*■ '  -•  the  rolling  barrels,  the  mixture  is  placed  under  the  pes- 
tles of  the  jjounding  mill,  10  per  cent,  of  water  is  added, 
and  it  is  beaten  for  three  hours  only. 

11.  Which  mill  is  novr  generally  used  1 

The  CYLINDER  MILL,  which  forms  50  lbs.  of  composition 
into  cake  in  from  one  to  three  hours. 

12.  Does  powder  inflame  instantaneously  1 

No ;  its  inflammation  is  gradual,  and  progressive,  and  in  a 
gun  the  projectile  commences  to  move  before  the  whole  charge 
is  ignited. 

13.  Why  should  gunpowder  be  grained  1 

In  order' to  facilitate  the  transmission  of  the  flame.  When 
the  powder  is  very  fine,  and  in  large  and  compact  charges, 
the  flame  cannot  penetrate  it,  and  it  burns  slowly  and  in  suc- 
cessive layers. 

14.  Which  burns  quickest,  the  small  or  large  grained 
powder  ? 

Before  coming  to  the  limit  of  dust,  the  smaller  the  grain, 
the  more  rapid  the  combustion,  and  the  greater  the  bursting 
force  of  the  powder. 


66  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

15.  What  is  the  difference  between  the  ignition  and  com- 
bustion of  large  and  small  grained  powder  J 

With  the  large  grained,  the  ignition  is  more  rapid,  but  the 
combustion  slower;  with  small  grains,  the  contrary  is  the 
case. 

16.  Wliy  should  the  grains  be  angular  ? 

Because  they  present  a  greater  surface  to  the  action  of  the 
flame,  and  therefore  burn  quicker. 

17.  AVhy  should  powder  be  free  from  dust  ? 

Because  the  dust  tills  up  the  intervals  between  the  grains, 
and  forming  a  compact  mass,  retards  combustion. 

18.  To  wliat  special  purpose  are  large  and  small  rgg 
grained  powders  .ipplicd  ?  '- 

The  large  for  cannon,  and  the  small  for  small  arms. 

19.  How  is  the  size  of  the  grain  for  each  kind  of  powder 
tested  ? 

By  means  of  sieves  or  gauges. 

20.  How  many  grains  of  powder  are  in  10  grs.  Troy 
weight  ? 

Cannon,  150 ;  Musket,  2,000  to  2,500 ;  and  Rifle,  12,000 
to  15,000. 

21.  What  is  the  object  in  glazing  powder  ? 

Glazed  powder  does  not  absorb  moisture,  or  break  up  in 
transportation,  so  much  as  unglazed. 

22.  What  is  the  established  mode  of  proving  the  strength 
of  powder  in  the  U.  S.  ? 

A  sample  is  taken  from  each  barrel,  and  the  strength  de- 
termined by  the  eprouvette  mortar. 

23.  What  is  the  least  range  allowed  ? 

The  general  mean-range  of  new  powder  must  not  be  less 
than  250  yards  ;  but  no  powder  ranging  below  225  yards  is 
received. 

24.  When  is  powder  in  magazines  considered  unserviceabe  ? 
When  it  does  not  range  over  180  yards. 

25.  What  is  the  range  of  good  powder  ? 

Cannon  from  280  to  300  yards.  Small  grained  from  300 
to  320  yards. 

26.  What  other  means  is  there  for  determining  the  strength 
of  powder? 

The  Gun  and  Ballistic  pendulum,  and  Navez'  Elec- 
tro-ballistic Machine.  The  latter  is  considered  the  best 
for  determining  the  initial  velocity. 


OUNPOWDEK.  67 

c^yi       27.   What  is  the  hygrometric  proof  of  powder  ? 

-■  Samples  are  placed  in  shallow  tin  pans,  set  in  a  tub, 
the  bottom  of  which  is  covered  with  water ;  the  pans  should 
be  about  an  inch  above  the  water,  and  the  tub  covered. 
Good  powder  will  not  absorb  more  than  2h  per  cent,  in  24 
hours. 

28.  How  can  the  relative  quickness  of  two  kinds  of  pow- 
der be  determined  ? 

By  burning  a  train  laid  in  a  circular  or  other  groove,  which 
returns  into  itself,  made  in  a  piece  of  hard  wood:  one  half 
of  the  groove  being  filled  with  each  kind  of  powder,  and  fire 
communicated  at  the  junction  of  the  two  trains,  the  relative 
quickness  is  readily  deduced  from  observation  of  the  point  at 
which  the  flames  meet. 

29.  What  are  the  qualities  of  good  powder? 

It  should  be  perfectly  free  from  dust,  uniform  in  strength 
and  size  of  grains,  angular  and  irregular  in  form;  in  color, 
brownish  black,  or  slate  color;  so  hard  as  not  to  be  easily 
crushed  by  pressure  with  the  finger;  and  should  leave  no 
beads  or  foulness  when  flashed  in  quantities  of  10  grs.  on  a 
copper  plate. 

30.  What  is  the  expansive  velocity,  and  pressure  of  igni- 
ted powder  ? 

The  expansive  velocity  is  about  5,000  feet  per  second,  and 
pressure  about  2,000  atmospheres. 

31.  What  is  the  weight  of  a  cubic  inch  of  powder? 
About  half  an  ounce;  a  cubic   foot  will  therefore  weigh 

about  54  pounds,  and  32  cubic  inches,  one  pound. 

32.  How  is  government  powder  packed  ? 

In  barrels  of  100  lbs.  each;  the  barrels  being  large  enough 
oQ-i  to  allow  sufiicient  space  for  the  powder  to  move  when 
^  rolled  to  prevent  its  caking. 

33.  How  are  the  barrels  marked  ? 

On  one  head  with  the  ^;/!«ce  and  year  of  manufacture,  and 
with  the  kind  of  grain,  cannon,  musket  or  rijie;  on  the  other 
head  with  the  year  in  which  it  was  proved  and  the  proof- 
range,  leaving  room  for  subsequent  proofs,  which  are  marked 
in  the  same  manner. 

34.  When  powder  is  injured  by  dampness,  can  it  be  re- 
stored ? 

If  the  water  absorbed  does  not  exceed  7  per  cent.,  it  can 
be  by  drying.     If  it  has  absorbed  from  7  to  12  per  cent., 


6S  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

after  diying,  it  remains  porous  and  friable,  and  is  unfit  for 
transportation.     In  this  case  it  is  better  to  work  it  over. 

35.    How  is  powder  stored  ? 

In  magazines  especialh'*constructed  for  the  purpose.  The 
barrels  are  generally  placed  near  the  sides,  three  tiers  high, 
or  four  tiers  if  necessar}';  small  skids  should  be  placed  on 
the  floor  and  between  the  several  tiers  of  barrels,  in  order  to 
steadj'  them,  and  chocks  should  be  placed  at  intervals  on  the 
lower  skid,  to  prevent  the  rolling  of  the  barrels. 

3().    How  are  the  dilferent  kinds  of  powder  arranged? 

Those  barrels  of  the  same  kind,  place  and  date  of  fabrica- 
tion, and  proof  range,  are  piled  together. 

37.  Should  it  be  necessary  to  pile  the  barrels  more  than 
four  tiers  high,  what  is  done  ? 

The  upper  tiers  are  supported  by  a  frame  resting  on  the 
floor;  or  the  barrels  may  be  placed  on  their  heads,  with 
boards  between  the  tiers. 

38.  What  is  necessarj^  for  the  preservation  of  the  powder  ? 
The  magazine  should  be  opened  and  aired  in  clear  rgg 

dry  weather,  and  the  ventilators  should  be  kept  free.         ^ 

39.  How  may  the  moisture  of  a  magazine  be  absorbed  ? 
By  chloride  of  lime  suspended  in  a  box  mider  the  arch, 

and  renewed  from  time  to  time. 

40.  When  the  magazine  is  open,  what  precautions  should 
be  observed  ? 

The  sentinel  or  guard  should  have  no  fire-arms,  and  any 
one  who  enters  it  should  take  off  his  shoes,  or  put  socks  over 
them.  No  sword  or  cane,  or  anything  which  might  occasion 
sparks  should  be  carried  in. 

41 .  How  should  powder  in  barrels  be  transported  ? 

The  barrels  should  never  be  rolled ;  they  should  be  carried 
in  hand-barrows,  or  slings  made  of  rope  or  leather.  In  wa- 
gons, the  barrels  should  be  packed  in  straw,  and  not  allowed 
to  rub  against  each  other,  and  the  whole  covered  with  thick 
canvas. 

42.  What  precaution  should  be  used  to  prevent  powder 
caking  ? 

The  barrels  should  be  taken  outside  the  magazine  and 
rolled  on  boards. 

43.  Where  should  cartridge  bags  be  filled  ? 

In  the  filling  room  of  the  laboratory,  or  a  small  magazine, 
and  not  in  the  general  magazine. 


PROJECTILES*  69 

90] 

PART  IX. 


PEOJECTILES. 

1.  What  projectiles  are  made  use  of  in  the  service  ? 
Solid  shot ;  shells  ;  spherical  case,  or  shrapnel ;  canister : 

grape  ;  grenades  ;  stones ;  carcasses  ;  light  and  fire  balls. 

2.  Wliat  is  a  solid  shot  ? 

A  solid  sphere  of  cast  iron,  almost  exclusively  appropriated 
to  guns.  The  gun  derives  it  denomination  from  the  weight 
of  the  shot,  as  6-pr.,  12-pr.,  &c. 

3.  What  is  a  shell,  and  its  use  ? 

A  hollow  sphere  of  cast-iron,  containing  powder,  which  is 
ignited  by  means  of  a  fuze ;  Avheu  fired  at  troops,  it  should 
be  prepared  to  burst  over  their  heads,  or,  if  the  ground  be 
favorable,  to  ricochet  a  little  in  front,  and  plunge  into  the 
column.  When  fired  at  works  or  buildings,  it  should  ex- 
plode after  penetration. 

4.  What  is  spherical  case,  and  what  advantages  does  it 
possess  ? 

It  is  a  shell  much  thinner  than  the  ordinary  shell,  and  filled 
with  leaden  bullets  and  a  charge  of  powder  suflicient  to  burst 
it,  which  is  done  by  means  of  a  fuze  as  with  a  common  shell 
at  any  required  distance.  It  is  thus  calculated  to  extend  all 
the  advantages  of  canister  shot,  to  distances  far  beyond  the 
reach  of  that  projectile.  It  is  fired  both  from  guns  and 
howitzers. 
Q-j  1       5.   What  are  canister  shot  ? 

^  Cylindrical  tin  cases  with  iron  heads,  of  calibre  suita- 
ble for  different  pieces  of  ordnance,  filled  with  cast-iron  balls 
arranged  in  tiers ;  they  are  fired  at  ranges  not  exceeding  400 
yards,  but  their  most  destructive  effects  are  from  100  to  200 
yards. 

6.   What  are  grape  shot  ? 

A  certain  number  of  iron  balls,  usually  nine,  put  together 
by  means  of  two  cast-iron  plates,  two  rings,  and  one  pin  and 
nut.     Each  plate  has  on  the  inside  three  beds  for  the  shot,  of 


70  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

a  deptli  equal  to  half  the  thickness  of  the  plate,  and  of  the 
form  of  a  spherical  segment,  the  curvature  of  which  is  the 
same  as  that  of  the  shot.  An  iron  pin  riveted  to  the  bottom 
iron  plate,  passes  through  the  centre  and  also  through  the 
top  plate,  where  the  whole  is  secured  by  a  nut  and  screw. 

XoTE. — The  use  of  these  shot  for  field  pieces  has  been  discon- 
tiuued,  canister  answering  tlie  iJiirpose  of  th(\se  shot. 

7.  How  were  the  balls  fixed  in  the  old  pattern  ? 

They  were  placed  in  tiers  around  an  iron  pin  attached  to 
an  iron  tompion  at  the  bottom,  .and  put  into  a  canvas  bag, 
and  then  quilted  around  with  a  strong  cord. 

8.  What  is  a  grenade  ? 

A  shell  thrown  from  the  hand,  or  in  baskets  from  the  stone- 
mortar,  and  ignited  as  other  shells  by  means  of  a  fuze. 

9.  How  many  kinds  of  grenades  are  made  use  of? 

Hand-grenades  and  rampart-grenades  ;  six-pounder  sphe- 
rical case  may  be  used  for  the  former,  and  shells  of  any  ca- 
libre for  the  latter. 

10.  To  what  purposes  are  grenades  applied  ? 

They  are  useful  in  the  defense  of  works,  the  smaller,  goi 
thrown  by  hand  into  the  head  of  a  sap,  trenches,  covered  '^■' 
way,  or  upon  the  besiegers  mounting  a  breach :  the  larger 
kinds  are  rolled  over  the  parapet  in  a  trough. 

11.  What  is  a  carcass,  and  its  use  ? 

It  is  a  spherical  shell  having  three  additional  holes,  of  the 
same  dimensions  as  tlie  fuze  hole,  pierced  at  equal  distances 
apart  in  the  upper  hemisphere  of  the  shell,  and  filled  with  a 
composition  w  hich  burns  with  intense  power  from  eight  to  ten 
minutes,  and  the  flame  issuing  from  the  holes,  sets  fire  to 
everything  combustible  within  its  reach  ;  it  is  used  in  bom- 
bardments, setting  fire  to  shipping,  &c.;  and  is  projected  from 
cannon  like  a  common  shell. 

12.  AVhat  is  a  substitute  for  a  carcass  ? 

Common  shells  loaded  in  the  following  manner :  The 
bursting  charge  is  placed  in  the  bottom  of  the  shell  in  a 
flannel  bag,  over  which  carcass  composition  is  driven  until 
the  shell  is  nearly  filled;  then  insert  four  or  five  strands  of 
quick-match,  which  must  be  secured  by  driving  more  com- 
position upon  it.  These  shells,  after  burning  as  a  carcass, 
explode. 


PROJECTILES.  71 

13.  What  is  a  fire-ball,  and  its  use  ? 

It  is  a  projectile  of  an  oval  shape,  formed  of  sacks  of  can- 
vas filled  with  combustible  composition,  which  emits  a  bright 
flame.  Its  use  is  to  light  up  the  enemy's  works,  and  it  is 
loaded  with  a  shell  to  prevent  it  from  being  approached. 

14.  What  is  a  light  ball? 

Light  balls  are  the  same  as  fire  balls,  except  that  there  is 
no  shell  in  them,  as  they  are  used  for  lighting  up  our  own 
works. 
Q^l       15.  What  is  a  smoke  ball  ? 

-I  A  hollow  paper  sphere  similar  to  a  light  ball,  and 
filled  with  a  composition  which  emits  a  dense,  nauseous 
smoke ;  it  is  employed  to  suftocate  the  enemy's  miners  when 
at  work,  or  to  conceal  one's  own  operations ;  it  burns  from 
twenty-five  to  thirty  minutes. 

16.  In  field  pieces  to  what  is  the  projectile  attached  ? 
To  a  block  of  wood  called  a  sabot. 

17.  Are  the  projectile  and  cartridge  ever  attached  to  the 
game  sabot  ? 

Yes,  in  field  guns,  and  the  12-pr.  field  how  itzer ;  the  whole 
then  constitutes  a  round  of  fixed  ammunition. 

18.  What  is  the  arrangement  in  case  of  the  32  and  24-pdr. 
field  howitzers  ? 

The  projectile  is  separate  from  the  charge,  and  the  car- 
tridge is  attached  to  a  block  of  wood  called  the  cartridge- 
block,  the  object  of  which  is  to  give  a  finish  to  the  cartridge 
and  fill  the  chamber. 

19.  What  difi"erence  is  there  in  sabots  for  field  service  ? 
Sabots  for  shot,  and  spherical  case  for  guns,  have  one 

groove  for  attaching  the  cartridge — those  for  gun  canisters 
and  for  the  12-pdr.  howitzer  shells,  spherical  case,  and  can- 
isters, have  two  grooves.  Those  for  the  32  and  24-pdr.  how- 
itzers have  no  grooves;  but  are  furnished  with  handles  made 
of  cord,  passing  through  two  holes  in  the  sabot,  and  fastened 
by  knots  on  the  inside. 

20.  How  are  projectiles  for  field  service  fastened  to  the 
sabot  ? 

By  straps  of  sheet-tin,  or  of  strong  canvas,  when  tin  or 
sheet  iron  cannot  be  procured. 

q.-|  21.  How  many  straps  are  employed,  and  how  are 
^^J  they  fastened  ? 


72  liAXl>BOOK    OF   AR^riLLERY. 

For  67/0^  tiiere  are  two  straps  crossing  at  right  aiigiee* 
one  passing  through  a  slit  iu  tlie  middle  of  the  other.  For 
shells,  there  are  four  straps  soldered  to  a  ring  of  tin,  or  fas- 
tened to  it  by  cutting  four  slits  in  the  ring,  into  which  the 
upper  ends  of  the  strap  are  hooked,  and  turned  down  on  the 
inside  of  the  ring.  The  sahots  for  32  and  24-pdr.  lield  how- 
itzers having  no  groove,  each  strap  is  fastened  by  one  nail  ou 
the  side,  and  two  under  the  bottom  of  the  sabot. 

22.  What  is  a  canister  for  Jield- service  ? 

It  consists  of  a  tin  cylinder  attached  to  a  sabot  and  filled 
with  cast-iron  shot. 

23.  How  is  it  made  ? 

The  cylinder  is  fastened  to  the  sabot  by  six  or  eight  nails, 
and  a  plate  of  rolled  iron  is  placed  at  the  bottom  ou  the  sa- 
bot. It  is  closed  with  a  sheet-iron  cover  after  being  filled, 
the  top  of  the  cylinder  being  cut  into  strips  h  an  inch  long, 
and  turned  down  over  the  cover. 

24.  Ill  case  of  heavy  guns  are  the  shot  attached  to  the 
sabot  ? 

They  are  generally  without  a  sabot. 

25.  How  is  it  with  shells  ? 

They  are  strapped  to  sabots  made  of  thick  plank,  with 
strips  of  tin,  as  in  case  of  strapping  shot  for  field-service. 

26.  How  is  it  with  canister  for  siege  and  sea-coast  guns  ? 
They  have  no  sabot ;  the  tin  is  turned  over  the  iron  bot- 
tom. 

27.  How"  is  it  with  canisters  for  the  8-in.  siege  and  sea- 
coast  howitzers  ? 

They  are  attached  to  sabots  in  the  same  way  as  the   r^^^ 
field-howitzer  canisters.     The  sabot  for  the  siege  how-   '- 
itzer  has  a  hemispherical  bottom  and  the  sea-coast  a  conical 
one,  to  suit  the  connecting  surface  between  the  cylinder  of 
the  bore  and  the  chamber  in  these  pieces. 

28.  Are  sabots  used  with  grape  shot  ? 
Yes,  in  the  8-inch  sea-coast  howitzer. 

29.  What  is  its  form,  and  how  fastened  ? 

It  is  conical ;  and  may  be  fastened  to  the  lower  plate  with 
screws,  or  the  pin  may  be  made  long  enough  to  pass  through 
it;  or  else  the  sabot  maybe  inserted  into  the  piece  separately 
from  the  stand  of  grape. 

30.  Wliat  is  the  object  i)fJixixig  shot  or shells  to  wooden 
bottoms  .' 


IPROJECTILES. 


73 


*ro  pyevent  injury  to  brass  caunon  ;  and  to  insure  the  fuze 
of  a  shell  being  retained  in  the  axis  of  the  piece. 

31.  What  proportioQ  does  the  weight  of  one  shot  bear  to 
that  of  another  ? 

The  proportion  is,  as  the  cubes  of  their  diameters. 

32.  How  is  the  weight  of  a  cast-iron  shot  or  shell  deter- 
mined ? 

Multiply  the  cube  of  the  diameter  of  the  shot  in  inches, 
or  the  difference  of  the  cubes  of  the  exterior  and  interior 
diameters  of  the  shell  by  0.134  for  the  weight  in  pounds.  In 
case  of  lead  balls,  the  multiplier  is  0.214. 

33.  How  is  the  diameter  of  a  cast-iron  shot  of  a  given 
weight  found  ? 

Divide  the  weight  in  i>ounds  by  0.134,  and  extract  the 
cube  root  of  the  quotient,  which  will  be  the  diameter  in 
inches. 
Qp-i       34.  How  is  the  quantity  of  powder  which  a  shell  will 

-•  contain  found  ? 

Multiply  the  cube  of  the  interior  diameter  of  the  shell  in 
inches,  by  0.01744  for  the  weight  of  powder  in  pounds. 

Note. — The  above  multipliers  are  found  as  follows:  Suppose  JV  to 
represent  the  weight  of  a  body,  D  its  density,  Fits  volume,  and  g  the 
■weight  of  the  unit  of  mass,  then  W=DVg.  Now,  if  a  cubic  inch 
be  taken  as  the  unit  of  volume,  then  g  will  be  numerically  -f- y-2~f 


pounds. 


Hence,   ^r=i)r-ff^|=0.036201 ;   i)  r=0.03620Z)— d» 

6 


(supposing  d  to  be  the  diameter,  and  the  body  to  be  spherical) 
=O.U:3620Jx0.5236Z)d3=o.018955Z></3.  jf  ^-e  now  substitute  for  D 
the  specific  gravity  of  cast-iron  shot  or  shells=7.000,  we  have, 
W^=7x0.018955rf5=0.134ri3;  and  if  for  D  we  substitute  the  specific 
gravity  of  lead,  rr=0.2142rf'';  and  in  case  of  powder,  rr=0.01744d^. 
For  diameters,  tceights  and  charges,  see  Tables,  pages  105-108. 

35.   When  shot  are  heated  to  a  white  heat,  what  expansion 
takes  place  ? 


Calibre. 

8-in. 

42 

32 

24 

18 

12 

Expansion,       inches, 

0.149 

0.11 

0.10 

0.08 

0.06 

0.04 

74  iiAXD-Booiv  or  AUrtLLElXr. 

5i6.    Do  heated  shot  retain  a  permanent  enlargement  ? 

Yen;  in  case  uf  the  8-Jn.  shot,  Jor  example,  alter  tlie  firsS 
eo(»ling  the  eiilaigeujeiit  is  0.054  in. ;  and,  alter  tiie  second, 
0.099  in. 

37.  Ave  the  igniting  powers  of  a  hot  shot  destroyed  by 
ricochettiiig  npoii  the  water  ? 

Ko;  a  sliot,  properly  lu-nted,  a\]\  ignite  wood  after  having 
seriiek  the  water  several  times. 

38.  What  is  the  peenliarity  of  cartridges  for  liot  shot?    rg^ 
There   are  two   cartridge  bags^,  one    being   iiis^erted,    '■ 

cbc-ke  foremost  in  aivother  of  tlie  next  higher  calibre,  and  the 
end  of  U>e  latter  fohled  under. 

39.  Explain  tbe  process  of  b»ading  with  liot  shot. 

The  piet'e  should  he  sponged  with  great  caie,  and  the  worm 
frequently  pasi^ed  into  the  b«»re.  As  a  precautinn,  it  is  wei! 
to  insert  a  wet  sponge  just  before  putting  in  the  ball.  The 
muzzle  is  sulheiently  elevated  to  allow  the  hall  to  roll  dowsi 
the  blue,  the  carti-Rlge  is  inserted,  the  mouth  of  the  outer 
bag  foremost,  the  fokl  down,  and  ca-refully  pushed  liome 
witliout  breaking  it;  a  *Ji}  hay- wad  is  placed  upon  it,  and 
rammed  once;  tlien  a  chiy  or  wet  hay  v\ad,  and  ramnicd 
twice-,  a)id  linally,  if  hying  at  angles  oi  deprtssion,  a  wad  oi 
clay  a  half-calihr*e  in  lengtii,  or  u'wtt  hay-wad  is  put  on  the 
ball. 

40.  May  the  ball  cool  in  the  gun  without  igniting  the 
charge  I 

Ye8,  with  proper  precaution  in  loading.  The  piece,  how- 
ever, should  be  tired  with  as  little  delay  as  possible,  as  the 
vapor,  which  arises  from  the  action  of  the  ht)t  ball  on  the 
water  contained  in  the  wad,  diminishes  the  strength  of  the 
powder. 

41.  What  means  arc  afforded  at  the  sea- board  forts  for 
heating  shot  ? 

Furnaces  for  this  purpose  are  erected,  which  hold  GO  or 
more  shot. 

42.  What  length  of  time  is  required  to  heat  them  to  a  red 
heat  ? 

The  shot  being  placed  and  tlie  furnace  cold,  >t  requires 
one  hour  and  iilteen  minutes;  but  atier  the  furnace  is   rgg, 
once  heated,  a  •24-pdr.  shot  is  brought  to  a  red  heat  in    ^ 
twenty-live  minutes;  the  32-pdr.  and  42-pdr.  shot  require  a 
few  minutes  longer. 


PROJECTILES*  7d 

43.  Describe  grates  for  heating-  shot. 

In  siege  and  other  batteries,  where  there  are  no  furnaces, 
a  grate  is  used.  It  consists  of  four  ))ars  1.75  inches  square, 
three  feet  h>ug,  placed  four  inches  apart  on  three  iron  stands, 
one  foot  in  heiglit.  It  is  phiced  in  an  excavation  one  foot  in 
depth,  of  the  width  of  the  grate,  perpendicular  at  the  back 
and  side,  open  in  front,  the  legs  resting  on  bricks  or  stonea 
rising  about  four  or  five  inches  from  the  bottom.  A  roof  i3 
made  over  it  with  hoops  of  flat  iron,  covered  with  sods  and 
eighteen  inches  of  earth,  having  in  the  back  part  a  chimney 
six  inches  square.  The  shot  are  placed  on  the  back  part  of 
the  grate,  leaving  one-fourth  of  the  front  part  free;  and 
under  and  on  tlie  front  part  the  wood  is  put,  cut  in  pieces 
about  fourteen  inches  long  and  two  inches  thick.  A  thick 
8od  is  used  as  a  register,  to  regulate  the  draught  of  the  chim- 
ney, so  that  no  flame  can  issue  from  the  front.  This  grate, 
Wliich  will  contain  about  fifteen  24-pdr.  balls,  heats  them  to 
a  red  heat  in  an  hour,  and  will  supply  three  guns. 

44.  How  are  wads  for  firing  hot  shot  made  ? 

Of  hay ;  by  twisting  from  the  hay  a  rope  of  an  inch  or  an 
inch  and  a  lialf  in  diameter,  and  then  commencing  at  one 
end,  and  doubling  it  up  about  one  calibre  in  length,  twisting" 
it  all  the  time  until  it  becomes  nearly  large  enough,  when 
the  rope  is  wound  around  the  wad  perpendicular  to  its  axis, 
and  fastened  with  a  hitch.  Or  the  hay  may  be  rammed  in  a 
noi  form  of  proper  calibre,  and  then  bound  with  spun  yarn, 

^   and  afterwards  rammed  a  second  time. 

45.  Have  hot  shot  been  almost  entirely  superseded  ? 
Yes,  since  the  adoption  of  the  method  of  throwing  large 

hollow  shot  from  long  pieces.  These  require  but  little  pre- 
paration, can  be  used  at  once,  and  are  more  terrible  in  their 
effects. 

46.  What  are  ring  or  grommet  wads,  and  their  use  ? 
They  consist  of  a  ring  of  rope  yarn,  about  0.7  in.  thick, 

vrith  two  pieces  of  strong  tjvine  tied  across  at  right  angles  to 
each  other.  The  size  of  the  ring  is  the  full  diameter  of  the 
bore,  in  order  that  it  may  fit  tight,  and  stop  the  windage. 
They  increase  the  accuracy  of  tire,  and  are  to  be  preferred 
when  the  object  of  the  wad  is  to  retain  the  ball  in  its  place, 
as  in  firing  at  a  depression.  They  stop  the  windage  best 
when  placed  behind  the  ball.    They  may  be  attached  to  the 


t6  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

straps,  or  to  the  ball  by  twine,  or  may  be  inserted  like  other 
wads  after  the  ball. 

47.  How  arc  junk-wads  made  ;  and  for  what  are  they  used  ? 
Wad-moulds  for  each  calibre, — consisting-  of  two  cast  iron 

cylinders  of  diflerent  diameters  set  in  oak,  or  of  two  strong 
pieces  of  oak,  strapped  with  iron,  and  joined  by  a  hing-e, — 
are  employed  in  their  manufacture.  The  junk,  after  having 
been  picked,  is  compressed  by  being  beaten  in  the  smaller 
mould  with  a.  maul  and  cylindrical  drift — the  latter  nearly 
of  the  size  of  the  mould — until  it  assumes  the  requisite  di- 
mensions ;  it  is  then  taken  out  by  raising  the  upper  part  of 
the  mould,  and  closely  wrapped  with  rope  yarn,  ])assed  over 
it  in  the  direction  of  the  axis  of  the  cylinder,  and  fas-  r-inn 
tened  by  a  few  turns  around  the  middle  of  the  wad.  ^ 
It  is  then  placed  in  the  large  mouhl,  and  again  beaten  with 
the  maul  and  drift,  until  its  diameter  is  increased  to  that  of 
the  mould,  when  it  is  taken  out  and  its  diameter  verified  by 
a  wooden  gauge  corresponding  to  the  large  shot-gauge  of  the 
calibre.     These  wads  are  used  for  proving  cannon. 

48.  Describe  the  process  of  loading  field-shells. 

They  are  set  up  on  their  sabots,  the  charges  measured  out 
in  the  proper  powder  measure,  and  poured  in  through  a  cop- 
per funnel.  The  fuze-plugs  are  then  driven  in  with  a  mallet, 
allowing  the  tops  to  project  about  0.1  in.,  care  being  taken 
not  to  split  them.  The  holes  in  the  plugs  are  then  carefully 
reamed  out,  and  stopped  with  tow-wads,  which  are  pressed 
in  firml}'  with  a  round  stick. 

49.  Describe  the  process  of  loading  spherical  case  shot. 
The  shot  having  been  cleaned,  the  balls  are  put  in.     A 

stick  with  a  less  diameter  than  the  fuze-hole,  and  having  a 
groove  on  each  side  of  it,  is  inserted  and  pushed  to  the  bot- 
tom of  the  chamber  by  Avorking  the  balls  aside.  The  shot  is 
then  placed  in  a  sand-bath  or  oven,  and  brought  to  a  proper 
temperature  to  receive  the  sulphur,  which  in  a  melted  state 
is  poured  in  to  fill  up  the  interstices  between  the  balls  ;  the 
shot  is  allowed  to  cool,  and  the  suli)hur  to  harden,  when  the 
stick  is  withdrawn,  and  the  sulphur  adhering  to  the  sides  of 
the  eye  and  the  surface  of  the  shot  is  removed.  If  a  fuze- 
plug  and  paper-fuze  are  to  be  used,  the  charge  is  poured  in 
and  the  plug  inserted  exactly  as  in  case  of  a  shell ;  but,  if 
the  Bormann  fuze  is  to  be  used  the  charge  is  inserted  qq, 
and  the  stopper  and  fuzo  scrmvxMi  into  thoir  places,  caro  ^ 


PROJECTILES.  77 

being  taken  before  placing  the  fuze  in  position  to  puncture 
the  covering  of  the  magazine,  so  that  the  fire  can  communi- 
cate with  the  charge. 

Spherical  case  are  now  usually  loaded  by  putting  in  the  bul- 
lets, and  pouring  melted  sulphur  in  until  the  case  is  full.  After 
the  sulphur  has  cooled,  the  space  for  the  powder  is  bored  out 
by  a  cutter,  which  removes  both  the  sulphur  and  portions  of 
the  bullets  from  the  space.  This  is  a  quicker  method,  and 
gives  a  more  compact  i)rojectile. 

50.  What  advantages  does  this  mode  of  loading  possess 
over  the  old  one  ? 

In  the  old  mode  there  was  a  liability  to  accidents,  and,  if 
the  powder  remained  in  for  any  length  of  time  before  being 
used,  it  was  ground  up  and  became  impaired.  By  the  new 
mode  the  powder  can  be  placed  in  the  small  chamber,  and 
allowed  to  remain  without  fear  of  damage  or  danger,  and  be 
ready  for  use  when  required.  Being,  besides,  in  a  compact 
mass,  instead  of  scattered  among  the  bullets,  its  power  is 
much  greater  and  it  acts  more  effectively  in  throwing  the 
bullets  outward  from  the  centre. 

51.  Describe  the  process  of  filling  Mortar-shells. 
Having  been  inspected  to  see  that  they  are  clean,  dry,  and 

in  good  order,  place  them  on  a  block  made  for  the  purpose, 
or  on  rings  of  rope,  or  in  indentations  in  the  floor  of  the 
magazine,  or  on  the  ground,  with  the  eyes  up.  The  charge 
measured  out  in  a  powder-measure  is  poured  in  through  a 
funnel,  and  any  incendiary  composition,  such  as  pieces  of 
port- fire,  rock-fire,  &c.  is  inserted.  In  the  mean  time  the 
1021  ^^^^  ^^  ^^^  ^^  ^^^^  proper  length  according  to  the  range, 
^  by  resting  it  in  a  groove  made  in  the  block,  or  inserting 
it  in  a  hole  made  in  a  block,  or  in  a  post,  and  sawing  it 
across  with  the  fuze-saw  ;  or  the  fuze  may  be  bored  through 
with  a  gimlet  perpendicularly  to  the  axis,  at  the  proper  point. 
The  fuze  is  then  tried  in  the  eye,  and  should  enter  |  of  its 
length.  If  it  does  not,  it  may  be  reduced  by  rasping.  The 
head  of  it  is  covered  with  tow  to  prevent  the  breaking  of  the 
composition,  the  fuze-setter  placed  on,  and  the  fuze  driven 
with  the  mallet  until  the  head  projects  not  more  than  0.2  in. 
to  0.4  in.  above  the  surface  of  the  shell.  These  shells  are 
generally  filled  and  the  fuzes  driven  in  the  battery  magazines, 
as  they  are  required. 


78  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

52.  How  are  shells  for  columbiads  and  heavy  guns  loaded  ? 

In  the  same  Avay  as  Mortar-shells;  but  as  paj)er-fuzes  in- 
serted in  wooden  or  bronze  fuze-i)lii<i;8  are  used  instead  of 
wooden  fuzes,  the  ping  on!}-  is  driven  into  its  place,  and 
stopped  with  tow  after  the  burstings  charge  has  been  poured 
through  it  into  the  sliell. 

53.  How  are  condemned  shot  and  shell  marked? 
With  an  X,  made  with  the  cold  chisel. 

54.  How  should  balls  be  preserved  ? 

The}'  should  be  carefully  lacquered  as  soon  as  possible 
after  they  are  received.  When  it  becomes  necessary  to  re- 
new the  lacquer,  the  old  l.acquer  should  be  removed  by  rolling 
or  scraping  the  balls,  which  should  never  be  heated  for  that 
purpose. 

55.  How  should  grape  and  canister  shot  be  preserved  ? 
They  should  be  oiled  or  lacquered,  put  in  piles,  or  in  (-,/^o 

Btrong  boxes  on  the  ground  floor,  or  in  dry  cellars ;  each  ^ 
parcel  marked  with  its  kind,  calibre,  and  number. 

':i6.    How  are  balls  piled  ? 

Balls  are  piled  according  to  kind  and  calibre,  under  cover 
if  practicable,  in  a  place  where  there  is  a  free  circulation  of 
air,  to  facilitate  which  the  piles  should  be  made  narrow,  if 
the  locality  permits;  the  width  of  the  bottom  tier  may  be 
from  12  to  14  balls  according  to  calil)re, 

Prepare  the  ground  for  the  base  of  the  pile  by  raising  it 
above  the  surrounding  ground  so  as  to  throw  off  the  water; 
level  it,  ram  it  well,  and  cover  it  with  a  layer  of  screened 
sand.  Make  the  bottom  of  the  pile  with  a  tier  of  unservice- 
able balls  buried  about  two-thirds  of  their  diameter  in  the 
Band;  this  base  may  be  made  permanent:  clean  the  base 
well  and  form  the  pile,  putting  t\n^  fuze-holes  of  shells  down- 
wards in  the  intervals,  and  not  resting  on  the  shells  below. 
Ench  pile  is  marked  with  the  number  of  serviceable  balls  it 
contains.  The  base  may  be  made  of  bricks,  concrete,  stone, 
wood,  or  with  borders  and  braces  of  iron. 

57.    How  should  fixed  aminuniticm  for  cannon  be  stored  ? 

Either  in  boxes  or  phiced  in  jjilcs,  formed  of  two  parallel 
rows  of  cartridges,  with  the  sabots  together ;  in  4  tiers  for 
12-pdr.  and  5  for  6-pdr. ;  chock  the  lower  tier  with  strips  of 
wood  fastened  with  small  nails  ;  put  a  layer  of  tow  2  in.  thick 
between  the  shot ;  let  the  piles  rest  on  planks,  if  there  is  no 


PROJECTILES.  79 

floor,  and  cover  them  with  tarpaulins ;  have  th-e  place  swept, 
and  the  c-.irtridge  Icigs  brnslscd  off.  Leave  a  paj^sage  of  J 8 
,  in.  between  the  double  rows,  and  keep  them  2  feet  from 
-■  the  walls.  Fixed  ammunition  r^lumld  not  l)e  pnt  into 
powder-v.iagazine!?,  if  it  can  be  av«)id(fd  ;  it  tthnuhl  be  kept  iu 
a  drv  pJMce  ;il)Ove  tiie  ,j2;roui!d  floor  if  ])ractical)le ;  the  store- 
roojiis  should  be  ahvays  aired  in  fine  wratlier.  tiif'  piles  !>hoiiid 
be  taken  down,  and  nnide  up  again  ewi-ry  ^ix  njonths  at  nnjst, 
tlie  bags  examined  aiid  repniivd,  and  the  damaged  cartridges 
broken  up.  A  tieket  on  eat  a  pile  tiliould  show  the  number 
and  kind  of  cartridges,  the  additions  to  the  pile,  and  the 
issues. 

53.    H(nv  should  eanist«r«  be  piled  ? 

Like  fixed  ainmunition,  in  4  tiers  for  24's  and  18's;  and 
5  for  12'8  and  G  s.  Empty  canisters  in  10  or  12  tiers ;  the 
bottoms  and  covers  separatel3^ 

59.  How  should  caHndge-baprs  filled  be  piled  ? 
Like  fixed  ammuniiion,  or  packed  in  boxes  or  barrels. 

60.  How  sliould  loaded  shells  be  piled  ? 

On  the  ground  floor  <)f  a  secure  building  on  planks,  if  the 
floor  is  not  boarded ;  in  6  tiers  at  most ;  the  fuzes  of  the 
lower  tier  in  the  vacant  spaces  between  the  shells ;  those  of 
the  other  tiers  turn  downwards,  like  the  fuze-holes  of  empty- 
shells  ;  the  piles  should  be  covered  with  a  tarpaulin.  Loaded 
shells  should  never  be  put  into  magazines,  except  from  abso- 
lute necessity. 

61.  How  should  fire-balls  be  preserved  ? 

In  a  cool  place,  separated  from  each  other  by  shavings  or 
straw,  if  they  are  piled  up. 

62.  How  is  the  number  of  shots  or  shells  in  a  pile  com- 
puted, of  whatever  form  the  pile  may  be  ? 

By  raultii)lying  the  sum  of  the  three  parallel  edges, 
-^-i  by  one-third  of  the  number  of  balls  in  a  triangular 
^"^J   face. 

63.  What  is  meant  by  the  three  parallel  edges  of  the 
pile  ? 

Of  the  rectangular  or  long  pile,  they  consist  of  the  two 
largest  bortoni  rows  and  top-row  ;  of  the  square  pile,  of  two 
bottom-rows  and  top  shot;  and  of  the  triangular  pile,  of  one 
b;>ttom-row,  the  shot  at  the  opposite  angle,  and  that  at  Xha 
top. 


80 


HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 


64.  How  is  the  number  of  phot  in  a  triangular  face  com- 
puted ? 

Multiply  the  number  in  the  bottom  row,  plus  one,  by  half 
the  number  in  the  bottom  row,  for  the  number  required. 

65.  How  is  the  shot  contained  in  the  top  row  of  a  rectan- 
gular pile  calculated  ? 

One  added  to  the  dijflference  between  the  long  and  short 
bottom  rows  will  be  the  number  required. 

66.  How  is  the  shot  in  an  incomplete  pile  calculated  ? 

By  first  computing  the  number  in  the  pile  considered  as 
complete,  then  the  number  of  what  the  upper  part  ought  to 
consist;  and  the  difference  of  these  piles  will  be  the  number 
contained  in  the  frustmn  or  incomplete  portion. 

Diameters  of  Shot,.  Shells  and  Spherical  Case, 


13-iu. 

lO-in. 

8-in. 

42 

32 

24 

18 

12 

6 

in. 
12.87 

in. 
9.87 

in. 

7.88 

in. 
6.84 

in. 
6.25 

in. 
5.68 

in. 
5.17 

in. 
4.52 

in. 
3.58 

[106 


Weights  of  Shot,  Shells  and  Spherical  Case. 


lumbiads 
m\  Sea- 
Coast 
owitzers. 

Mortars, 

Guns  and  Howitzers. 

5«   w 

.2 

d 

a 

,9 

a 

42 

32 

24 

18 

12 

6 

6 

c^. 

"7 

IhR. 

lbs. 

lb.s. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

IbH. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

Shot, 

128 

65 

42  7 

32.6 

24.4 

185 

12.3 

6.1 

BhellH, 

101 

50.5 

197 

87,. 5- 

44.5 

31 

22.5 

17 

13.4 

8.4 

Spher.  case, 

30 

20.3 

16 

11.86 

8.7 

6.1 

3.06 

The  8-inch  Mortar  Shell  is  used  for  the  Siege  Hovitaer. 


S^ROJECTILESj 


81 


"Weight  op  Canister  Shot. 


42 

32 

.?  a  '^ 

Hi 

18 

111 

6 

12-pr.  Howitzer. 

Field. 

Mountain. 

lbs. 
1.5 

lbs. 
1.14 

lbs. 
0.86 

lbs. 
0.64 

lbs. 
0.43 

Ib.s. 
0.32 

lbs. 
0.21 

lbs. 
•    0.16 

Musket 
ball. 

Weights  of  finished  Canisters  and  Number  of  Shot. 


Siege  and  Garrison  Guns. 

8-in. 

Howitzer. 

42 

32 

24 

IS 

12 

Siege. 

Sea-Coast. 

Weights, 

No.  of  shot,    - 

lbs. 
48 
27 

lbs 
37 
27 

lbs. 
29 
27 

lbs. 
23 

27 

lbs. 
15 

27 

lbs. 
53.5 

48 

lbs. 
48 

107] 


Weight  of  Grape  Shot  and  Grape-shot  Stands. 


8-in. 

42 

32 

24 

18 

12 

Gr?.pe  shot, 
Stands, 

lbs. 

6.1 

74.5 

lbs.            lbs. 
4.2            3.15 
51.2          39.7 

lbs. 
2.4 
30.6 

lbs. 

1.8 

22.1 

lbs. 
1.14 
14.8 

4* 


82  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

Weights  of  fixed  Ammunition, 


For  Guns. 

For  Howit 

zer."?. 

Weights. 

12 

6 

32 

24 

12 

Ihs. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

lbs. 

Cartridgo,   including  Cart-  ^  large  charge, 
ridge  Block.                         (  small      '• 

2  5G 

1.30 

3  88 

2  70 

2  06 

1.05 

3.10 

2.34 

1.05 

Shot  strapped, 

12.7.5 

6.28 

Shell  strapped  and  charged, 

_ 

_ 

24.60 

18  80 

9  35 

Spherical  case,  strapped  and  charged, 

11.43 

5  75 

31.00 

23.00 

1130 

Canister,  with  Sabot, 

14  80 

7  3-2 

28.50 

21.25 

10  80 

rShot, 
Round  of  Ammunition  ,  ^'l.l^i..^.^^^  '°'^" 
complete.                        SpSi  case,     -' 

15.40 

7  60 

27.70 

21.15 

10  50 

13.50 

6  82 

34  10 

25  34 

12  50 

(.Canister, 

16.91 

8.40 

31.60 

23.60 

11.85 

Charges  for  Mortar  Shells. 


Charges  for  Field  Shells 


rto  fill  the  .shell,     • 
Po\Tder   1  to  burst       do. 
required  }  to  blow  out  the  fuse  plug, 

[  for  service  charge, 


i 

?l 

Cl 

Ci 

lbs.  oz. 

lbs  oz. 

lbs.  oz. 

1  5 

]   0 

0  8 

0  11 

0  8 

0  5 

0  2 

0  2 

0  1 

1  0 

0  12 

0  7 

Rifle  or  mus- 
ket powdtr  is 
used  in  pre- 
f'nce  to  can- 
non. 


LABORATORY    STORES.  83 

Cfiarges  for  Spherical-case  Shot. 


Charge. 


No   of  musket  balls, 
Bursting  charge  ()f  powder,  oz. 
Weight  of  shot  loarlefl,  Ihs. 


8-in. 


]5 
nP5 


42 


30H 

9 

39. 


32 


225 

8 

no  in 


24 


175 

6 

22  75 


i 
18     1     12 


120 
5 


78 
45 

n 


38 
25 
5  5 


Charges  for  S'iells  for  Columbiads  and  Heavy  Guns. 


Coluir 

biads. 

FOR  GU-VS. 

Charge  of 

Powder. 

10-in. 

8-in. 

42 

32 

24 

18 

12 

lbs  oz 

lbs.  .,z. 

lbs.  oz. 

lbs  oz 

lb-,  oz. 

lbs   .  z. 

lbs.  oz. 

To  fill  the  shell, 

3  4 

1  12 

1  8 

1   5 

I  0 

0   U 

0  8 

To  burst 

1  6 

1  0 

0  12 

0  11 

0  8 

0  7 

0  5 

To  blow  out  the 

fllZ'^  plug. 

0  10 

0  8 

0  6 

0  2 

0  2V 

0  n 

01 

Forordiaary  ser- 

viee, 

3  0 

1  8 

1  4 

1  0 

n  12 

0  10 

0  7 

109] 


PART  X. 


LABORATORY  STORES. 

1.  What  if?  a  fuze? 

The  contrivance  h}-  whicli  fire  is  comniunicatod  to  the 
charge  in  a  shell.  It  consists,  essentially,  of  a  highly  in- 
fla;nniable  composition  inclosed  in  a  wood,  metal,  or  paper- 
case. 

2.  What  fuzes  are  used  in  the  U.  S.  service  ? 
Wooden,  paper,  the  Bormann  and  the  United  States  sea-. 

coast  fuzes  ? 


84 


HA^'D-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY* 


3.  Describe  the  wooden  fuze. 

It  consists  of  a  conical  plug-  of  wood,  of  the  proper  size 
for  the  fuze-hole  of  the  shell  with  which  it  is  to  be  fired.  The 
axis  of  this  plii^  is  bored  out  cylindrically,  from  the  large 
down  to  within  a  short  distance  of  the  small  end,  which  is 
left  solid.  At  the  large  end  a  cup  is  hollowed  out,  and  the 
outside  of  the  plug  is  divided  into  inches  and  parts,  generally 
tenths,  commencing  at  the  bottom  of  the  cup.  The  cylin- 
drical space  is  filled  with  composition,  pounded  hard,  and  as 
regularly  as  possible,  and  the  cup  filled  with  mealed  powder 
moistened  with  whisky  or  alcohol.  The  rate  of  burning  is 
determined  by  experiment,  and  marked  on  a  water-proof  cap, 
which  is  tied  over  the  cup.  Knowing  the  time  a:3y  sheli  is 
to  occupy  in  its  flight,  the  fuze  is  cut  off  with  a  saw  at  the 
proper  division,  and  firmly  set  in  the  fuze-hole  with  a  fuze- 
set  and  mallet.  Say  the  fuze  burns  5"  to  the  inch.  If  a  shell 
be  10"  in  reaching  the  mark  two  inches  of  fuze  will  burst  it 
as  it  strikes.  If  it  takes  8"  to  reach  the  mark,  1  6-10  .^^^ 
in.  will  be  cut  off,  &c.  '■ 

4.  What  is  the  disadvantage  of  this  fuze  ? 

Its  irregularity,  it  being  veiy  diflicult  to  ponnd  the  compo- 
sition so  that  equal  lengths  will  burn  in  equal  times.  The 
shell  may  either  burst  too  soon,  and  a  great  part  of  its  effect 
be  lost ;  or  it  may  burst  after  burying  itself  in  the  ground ; 
or  it  may  burst  after  passing  the  proper  point.  This  irregu- 
larity of  burning  is  common  to  all  fuzes  where  the  composi- 
tion'is  driven  in  successive  layers  in  a  column  which  burns  in 
the  same  direction. 

5.  What  is  the  composition  for  Mortar-fuzes  ? 


No. 

Nitre. 

Sulpliur. 

Mealed 
Powder. 

Time  of 
binning  1  in. 

Remarks. 

1 
2 
3 

2 
2 

1 
1 

3 
1 

3.8  yec. 
2^2    " 

For  Siege  Mortars. 
"     Sea-Coast    "• 
"    8-iu.  Howitzers. 

6.  Is  the  wooden-fuze  used  ? 
Yes,  for  Mortars. 

7.  Are  these  fuzes  always  cut  before  being  inserted  in  the 
shell? 

Generally  they  are ;  but  they  are  sometimes  hored  through 
at  the  proper  positions  instead  of  being  sawed. 


LABORATORY   STORES. 


$5 


8.  Are  they  ever  cut  obliquelj*  ? 

Yes,  when  the  fuze  is  so  long  as  to  render  it  likely  that  it 
will  reach  the  bottom  of  the  shell ;  for  by  cutting  it  perpen- 
, , ,  -]  dicular  to  the  axis,  the  whole  base  of  the  wood  might  be 
-•  driven  in  contact  with  the  bottom  of  the  shell,  and  pre- 
vent the  lighted  composition  from  setting  fire  to  the  bursthig 
charge. 

9.  Describe  the  paper -fuze. 

It  consists  of  a  conical  paper-case,  containing  the  compa- 
sition,  whose  rate  of  burning  is  sho\^n  by  the  color  of  the 
case,  as  follows : 


Black, 
Red, 

Green, 
Yellow, 


burns 


2"  to  the  inch 
3" 

5" 


Each  fuze  is  made  two  inches  long,  and  the  yellow  conse- 
quently burns  10".  For  any  shorter  time,  the  fuze  is  cut  with 
a  sharp  knife.  With  this  fuze  is  used  a  fuze-plug  having  a 
conical  opening,  which  is  reamed  out  to  fit  the  paper-case 
when  the  shell  is  loaded,  and  the  fuze  is  then  pressed  in  with 
the  thumb. 

10.  What  is  the  great  advantage  of  this  fuze  ? 

Its  simplicity,  and  the  little  trouble  required  to  place  it  in 
the  shell,  which  renders  unnecessary  the  numerous  and  com- 
plicated instruments  such  as  saws,  fuze-setter,  and  eltractor, 
files,  &c.,  which  were  formerly  used  in  field  artillery. 

11.  What  is  the  composition  of  paper-fuzes  made  of? 


Black, 
Red, 
Green, 
Yellow, 

Mealed 
Powder. 

Sulphur. 

1 
8 
8 
8 

0 
3 

35 
4.0 

86 


hand-book:  of  artillery. 


12.    Describe  the  Belgian  or  Bormann-fuze? 

The  fuzo-cape  is  made  of 
metal  (a  composition  (-,,q 
of  lead  and  tin),  and  ^  '* 
consists  Fig.  2,  first,  of  a 
short  cylinder,  having-  at  one 
end  a  horse-shoe  shaped  in- 
dentation ;  one  end  onl}-  of 
Nvhich  communicates  uith 
the  nnigazine  of  the  fuze 
placed  in  the  centre. 

This  horse-shoe  indenta- 
tion extends  nearly  to  the 
other  end  of  the  cylinder,  a 
thin  layer  of  the  nsetal  only 
intervening-.  This  is  gradu- 
ated on  the  outside  into  equal 
parts  representing  seconds 
and  quarter  seconds  (see 
Fig.  4).  In  the  bottom  of 
this  channel  a  smooth  layer 
of  the  composition  is  jdaced, 
^vith  a  jiiece  of  wick  or  yarn 
underneath  it.  On  this  is 
placed  a  piece  of  metal,  the 
cross  section  of  which  is 
■^edge  shaped  (see  Fig.  3) ; 
and  this,  by  machinery,  is 
pressed  down  ujxui  the  com- 
position, sealing  it  hermeti- 
cally. The  cylindrical  open- 
ing represented  at  a  r,,Q 
Fig.  2,  is  filled  with  L^^^ 
fine  powder  and  covered  with 
a  sheet  of  tin,  which  is  sol- 
dered, closing  the  magazine 
from  the  external  air. 

Before  using  the  fuze,  se- 
veral   holes     are    punched 


TOP  VIEW 


•SECTION 


Fig.  3. 


LABORATORY   STORES. 


S7 


Fig.  4. 


through  this  sheet  of  tin,  to 
a]h)w  the  flame  to  enter  the 
shell.  On  the  side  of  the 
fuze  the  thrend  of  a  serew 
is  cnt  which  fits  into  one  cut 
on  the  inside  of  the  fuze- 
hole,  and  the  fuze  is  screwed 
into  the  shell  with  a  wrench. 
The  thin  layer  of  metal 
over  the  composition  is  cut 
through  with  a  gouge  or 
chisel, or  even  a  pen-knife, 
at  the  interval  marked  with 
the  number  of  seconds  which 
"we  wish  the  fuze  to  burn. 
To  prevent  the  metal  of  this 
fuze,  which  is  soft,  from  be- 
ing driven  into  the  shell  by 
the  explosive  force  of  the 
charge,  a  circular  piece  of 
iron,  with  a  hole  through  its 
centre,  and  the  thread  of  a 
screw  on  the  outside  Fig.  5 
is  screwed  into  the  fuze-hole 
before  the  fuze  is  inserted. 

13.  To  what  kind  of  artillery  has  this  fuze  been  confined  ? 

Principally  to  light  artillery,  in  firing  shells  and  particu- 
larly spherical  case,  where  regularity  and  certainty  are  es- 
eential  requisites. 

14.  Mention  one  important  advantage  of  this  fuze. 

J  J  4-]  The  shells  can  be  loaded,  all  ready  for  use,  and  re- 
J  main  so  any  length  of  time,  perfectly  safe  from  explo- 
sion, as  the  fuze  can  be  screwed  into  its  place,  and  the  com- 
position never  exposed  to  external  fire  until  the  metal  is  cut 
through. 

15.  What  is  the  only  operation  under  fire  required  ? 

To  gouge  through  the  metal  at  the  proper  point,  with  any 
kind  of  chisel,  knife,  or  other  instrument. 

16.  Describe  the  United  States  sea-coast  fuze. 

In  the  United  States,  a  bronze  fuze-plug  has  been  adopted 
for  heavy  shells  instead  of  the  wooden  one.  It  fits  the  eye 
ia  the  same  way,  and  is  retained  by  friction. 


Fig.  5. 


S8  HAND*BOOK    OF  ARTILLERY. 

It  having  been  found  that  ricochets,  especially  over  Tratef) 
were  apt  to  extinguish  these  fuzes,  a  safety  cap  and  primer 
combined  have  been  adopted  in  the  navy.  A  recess  in  the 
top  is  filled  with  priming  composition  and  covered,  until  the 
fuze  is  required  for  use,  with  a  leaden  disk  which  fits  accu- 
rately the  opening.  A  crooked  passage  filled  with  priming, 
conveys  the  fire  to  the  fuze  composition  beneath,  and  pre- 
vents water  from  being  forced  in  in  sufl[icient  quantity  to 
extinguish  the  fuze. 

17.  When  are  paper  fuzes  for  field-shells  and  spherical 
case  inserted  ? 

At  the  moment  of  loading  the  gun,  and  into  wooden /wzc- 
'plugs  previously  driven  into  the  shell. 

18.  What  is  a  porl-flre  ? 

It  consists  of  a  small  paper  case  filled  with  a  highly  in- 
flammable but  slow-burning  composition,  the  flame  of  which 
is  very  intense  and  penetrating,  and  cannot  be  extinguished 
by  water.  .,,^ 

19.  What  is  it  used  for?  1-A-^-> 
Principally  as  an  incendiary  material  in  loading  shells,  and 

for  communicating  fire  to  the  priming  of  guns  when  proving 
them. 

20.  What  does  port-fire  composition  consist  of? 

Of  nitre,  sulphur,  and  mealed  powder,  in  difierent  propor- 
tions.    One  kind  is  composed  of 

Nitre,  -  -  -  *  -     65  parts. 

Sulphur,         -----    22.5  " 
Mealed  powder,  -  -  -  .     12.5  " 

A  port-fire  case,  eighteen  inches  in  length  filled  with  this 
Cjynposition,  burns  ten  minutes. 

21.  What  HYQ  priming-tubes,  and  their  use? 

Small  pipes  having  a  cap  at  one  end,  and  filled  with  a 
composition  for  firing  cannon. 

22.  What  tube  is  in  general  use  in  our  service  ? 
The  friction  primer. 

23.  Describe  it. 

It  consists  of  a  short  tube  of  metal  inserted  into  a  hole 
near  the  top  of  a  longer  tube,  and  soldered  in  that  position. 
The  short  tube,  is  lined  with  a  composition  made  by  mixing 
together  two  parts  of  chlorate  of  potassa  and  one  of  sulphu- 
rate of  antimony,  moistened  with  gum  water.     A  serrated 


LABORATORY   STORES.  89 

wire  passes  through  the  short  tube  and  a  hole  opposite  to  it 
in  the  side  of  the  long-  one,  the  open  end  of  the  short  tube 
being  compressed  Avith  nippers,  and  the  wire  at  the  end  of 
the  serrated  part  doubled  under  to  prevent  any  displace- 
ment. The  other  end  of  the  wire  is  doubled  and  twisted  by 
machinery.  The  long  tube  is  filled  with  musket  powder,  its 
upper  end  being  closed  with  shellac-varnish,  and  its  lower 
with  shoemakers-wax. 

24.  What  advantage  does  the  friction  tube  possess  ? 

-J, PI       It  gives  an  enemy  at  night  no  clue  to  the  position  of 
-I  your  piece,  as  does  the  lighted  port-fire,  or  slow-match. 

25.  What  is  slow-match  1 

A  slow  burning  match  prepared  from  hemp  or  flax  slightly 
twisted,  soaked  in  a  strong  lye,  or  in  water  holding  in  solu- 
tion sugar  of  lead.  Cotton  rope  well  twisted,  forms  a  good 
match  without  any  preparation. 

26.  How  long  does  slow-match  prepared  from  hemp  or  flax 
burn  ? 

Four  to  five  inches  to  the  hour. 

27.  What  is  the  use  of  slow-match  ? 

It  is  used  principally  for  the  purpose  of  retaining  fire  in 
the  shape  of  a  hard-pointed  coal,  to  be  used  in  firing  cannon, 
fire- works,  &:c.  It  was  formerly  used  in  field- batteries  for 
lighting  the  port-fires  with  which  the  pieces  w^ere  discharged; 
but  both  are  now  entirely  superseded  by  the  friction  tube. 

28.  W^hat  is  quick-match  ? 

It  is  a  match  made  of  threads  of  cotton,  or  cotton  wick, 
steeped  in  gummed  brandy  or  w^hisky,  then  soaked  in  a 
paste  of  mealed  powder  and  gummed  spirits,  and  afterwards 
strewed  over  with  mealed  powder. 

29.  How  long  does  it  burn  ? 

One  yard  burns  in  the  open  air  thirteen  seconds. 

30.  What  is  the  use  of  quick-match  ? 

To  fire  stone  and  heavy  mortars,  and  sometimes  in  proving 
pieces.  It  is  extensively  used  in  priming  all  kinds  of  fire- 
works, such  as  fire  and  light  balls,  carcasises,  rockets,  prim- 
ing tubes,  &c.,  and  in  conveying  fire  very  rapidly  from  one 
portion  of  a  piece  of  fire-work  to  another. 
,j~1  31.  When  used  for  discharging  cannon,  how  is  the 
■'  quick-match  set  fire  to  ? 

By  a  slow  match,  port-fire,  or  any  other  conTenient  ma- 
terial. 


90  HAND-BOOK    OF  ARTILLERY. 

32.  When  used  to  prime  carcases,  &c.,  how  is  it  set  on 
fire? 

By  the  flame  from  the  piece. 

3'i.   What  is  Va'enciennes  composition? 

A  compound  of  50  parts  of  nitre,  28  of  sulphur,  18  of  an- 
timony, and  6  of  ro.4ii. 

34.'  What  is  its  use? 

As  an  incendiary  omposition,  in  ehargini^  sliells  for  the 
p',irpo.<e  of  increasing  their  destructive  property,  b}'  setting 
fire  to  buildings,  shipping,  &c. 


[!18 
PART   XL 


PLATFOKMS. 

1.  What  is  a  platform  1 

A  strong  flooring  u{)on  which  a  piece  of  ordnance,  mounted 
on  its  carriage,  is  manoeuvred  when  in  battery. 

2.  What  is  the  object  of  a  platform? 

To  facilitate  the  service  of  heavy  guns  and  mortars,  and 
to  insure  accuracy  of  fire. 

3.  Mention  the  kinds  of  platforms  in  general  u<se  in  the 
service. 

Fixed  platforms  for  casemate  and  barbette  batteries  in  for- 
tifications, which  are  constructed  witli  the  works;  the  siege- 
platform  for  guns  and  howitzers;  and  the  siege-platform  for 
mortars;  the  rail-platform;  and  the  ricochet  platform. 

4.  What  properties  should  wooden  platforms  possess? 
Strength  and  portability. 

5.  Are  the  pieces  comiiosing  siege-platforms  of  the  same 
or  different  diuK-nsions  ? 

All  of  t!ie  same  dimensions,  viz:  9  feet  long,  5  inches 
wide,  and  3i  inches  thick;  except  the  sleepers,  which  r,jg 
in  the  mortar  platform  are  one  foot  less  in.  length.  '- 


PLATFORMS.  91 

6.  What  is  the  weight  of  each  piece  ? 
About  iifty  pounds. 

7.  What  is  the  number  of  pieces  in  the  siege-platform  for 
guns  and  howitzers  ? 

Forty-nine  in  all,  one  being  used  as  a  hurter  on  the  front 
part  of"  the  ])h\tform  to  prevent  the  carriage  from  running 
too  far  forward  ;  and  twelve  for  sleepers. 

8.  Describe  the  method  of  laying  a  platform  for  a  siege- 
gun  or  howitzer. 

First  establish  the  centre  line  of  the  embrasure,  and  stretch 
a  cord  on  this  line  from  the  middle  of  the  embrasure  to  the 
rear.     This  is  the  direclriv  of  the  platform. 

Lay  the  two  outside  sleepers  parallel  to  thh  directrix,  their 
outside  edges  being  fifty  four  inches  distant  from  it.  The 
four  other  sleepers  are  laid  ])arallel  to  these,  the  edge  of  each 
fifteen  and  a  half  inches  from  the  edge  of  the  next.  The 
upper  surface  of  the  front  ends  of  these  sleei)ers  to  be  fifty 
inches  on  a  verticiil  line  below  the  sole  of  the  embrasure. 

They  are  laid  with  an  elevation  to  the  rear,  of  one  and  a 
half  inches  to  the  yard,  or  four  and  a  half  inches  in  their 
whole  length.  This  elevation  may  be  determined  by  jilacing 
a  block  four  and  a  half  inches  high  on  the  front  end  of  the 
sleeper,  and  laying  a  straight-edge,  with  a  gunner's  level  on 
it  from  this  block  to  the  rear  end,  then  so  arrange  the  earth 
as  to  bring  the  level  true  in  this  position.  The  next  set  of 
sleepers  are  laid  against  and  inside  of  the  first,  overlapping 
,„Q-]  them  three  ieet,  having  the  rear  emls  inclined  out- 
■^  -'  wards,  so  that  the  outer  edges  of  the  exterior  ones  shall 
be  each  fifty-four  inches  from  the  directrix,  and  the  spaces 
between  the  edges  of  the  others  the  same  as  in  the  first  set, 
viz:  fifteen  and  a  half  inches  from  the  edge  of  one  to  the 
edge  of  the  next,  all  having  the  elevation  to  the  rear  of  one 
and  a  half  inches  to  the  yard,  and  perfectly  level  across. 
The  earth  is  then  rammed  firmly  around  these  sleepers, 
and  made  even  with  their  upper  surface.  The  first  deck- 
plank,  with  a  hole  through  each  end  for  the  eye  bolts,  is  laid 
in  place  perpendicular  to  the  directrix,  its  holes  correspond- 
ing with  those  in  the  sleepers.  The  hurter  is  placed  on  it, 
and  the  bolts  driven  through  the  corresponding  holes  in  these 
pieces.  The  hurter. should  be  so  placed  as  to  prevent  the 
wheels  from  striking  against  the  epaulment  when  the  piece 


92  HAND-BOOK    OF  ARTILLERY. 

is  in  battery.  If  the  interior  slope  has  a  base  of  two-sevenths 
of  its  height,  the  inner  edge  of  the  hurter  should  be  two  and 
a  half  inches  from  the  foot  of  the  slope.  The  other  plants 
are  then  laid,  each  one  forced  against  the  preceding,  the  last 
plank  having  holes  for  the  rear  eye-bolts.  By  drawing  out 
or  driving  in  the  outside  sleepers,  the  holes  through  their  rear 
ends  are  made  to  correspond  with  those  in  the  last  deck- 
plank,  and  the  bolts  are  put  in. 

Drive  stakes  in  the  rear  of  each  sleeper,  leaving  their  tops 
level  with  the  upper  surface  of  the  platform.  Raise,  ram, 
and  level  the  earth  in  rear  of  the  platform,  so  as  to  have  a 
plain,  hard  surface  to  support  the  trail  when  the  recoil  is 
great.  The  earth  at  the  sides  should  be  raised  nearly  as  high 
as  the  platform,  and  well  rammed,  giving  it  a  slight  r-.2r 
inclination  outwards  to  allow  the  water  to  run  off.  '- 

9.  What  are  the  dimensions  of  this  platform  ? 
Fifteen  feet  by  nine  feet. 

10.  Why  is  the  elevation  to  the  rear  given  to  this  plat- 
form ? 

To  diminish  the  recoil  and  to  permit  the  water  to  run  off. 

11.  Describe  the  platform  for  a  mortar. 

The  mortar-platform  is  composed  of  only  half  the  number 
of  sleepers  and  deck-planks  required  for  the  gun  or  howitzer 
platform.  It  is  laid  level,  and  the  front  and  rear  deck-planks 
are  connected  by  eye-bolts  to  every  sleeper.  Its  depth  is 
one-half  that  of  "the  previous  platform. 

12.  Describe  the  method  of  laying  the  rail-platforra. 

The  rail  platform  for  siege-mortars  consists  of  three  sleep- 
ers and  two  rails  for  the  cheeks  of  the  mortar-bed  to  slide  on, 
instead  of  the  deck-plank,  and  is  very  strong,  and  easily  con- 
structed and  laid. 

The  pieces  being  notched  to  fit,  are  driven  together  at  the 
battery,  the  distance  between  the  centre  lines  of  the  rails 
being  equal  to  that  between  the  centre  lines  of  the  cheeks. 
The  earth  is  excavated  eight  and  a  half  inches,  the  depth  of 
the  sleepers,  and  the  bottom  made  perfectly  level.  The  direc- 
trix being  exactly  marked  by  stakes,  the  platform  is  placed 
in  position,  its  centre  line  coinciding  with  a  cord  stretched 
between  the  stakes  marking  the  line  of  fire.  The  earth  is 
filled  in  as  high  as  the  upper  surface  of  the  sleepers,  and 
firmly  rammed;    and  stakes  are  driven  in  the  rear  angles 


AfiTILLESY   CARRIAGES  A^TD   3IACHryES.         93 

1 22 -I  formed  bv  the  sleepers  and  rails,  and  one  at  the  rear 

■'   end  of  each  rail. 

13.  Mention  tlie  parts  of  the  ricochet-platform. 

1  Hurter,        8  ft.  loner,       8    in.  wide,  and  8    in.  thick. 
3  Sleepers,      9  ft.     ""        5^  "      "        "  6^       " 

2  planks,  10  t1.8in.lv,  13  "  "  "  2\  " 
1  plank.  7  ft.  lon^,  13  "  "  "  2i  "• 
1  piece  plank,  '2i  tl:.  long-,  13    *'      "        "  '2i      " 

And  some  stakes. 

14.  Describe  the  method  of  laying-  this  platform. 

To  lav  this  platform,  place  the  horrer  perpendicular  to  the 
line  of  tire,  and  secure  it  by  four  stakes,  one  at  each  end  and 
two  in  front,  3li  inches  from  the  middle  towards  each  end ; 
lav  the  three  sleepers  parallel  to  the  barter,  the  tirst  16  inches 
from  the  rear  edge  of  the  barter,  the  second  4-3-^  inches  from 
the  rear  edge  of  "the  tirst,  and  the  third  4-3-i  inches  from  the 
rear  edge  of  the  second.  Lay  the  plank  3U  inches  from  the 
directrix  of  the  platform  to  the  centre  of  the  plank.  Place 
the  piece  of  plank  60  inches  from  the  rear  edge  of  the  last 
sleeper,  and  bed  it  in  the  ground.  Place  on  the  last  sleeper 
and  this  piece  of  plank,  C/i-?  plank  (7  feet  long),  its  front  edge 
106  inches  from  the  rear  edge  of  the  barter. 


123] 

PART  xn. 


ARTILLERY  CARRLAGES  AND  MACHINES. 

1.  What  is  meant  by  artillery  carriages  ? 

Carriages  of  every  description  emptoyed  in  the  artillery 
service. 

2.  How  are  such  carriages  classified  1 

Into  two  general  divisions ;  tirst,  those  carriages  on  -which 
artillery  are  mounted,  either  for  firing  or  traTelKng;  and 
secondly,  such  as  are  especially  used  for  the  transpoitatkili 
of  artillery  ammanition  and  stores. 


94  HAKD-BOOK    OF  ARTILLERY* 

3.  What  is  a  gun-carriage  ? 

It  is  the  machine  on  Avhich  a  piece  is  mounted  for  manoetl- 
Vring  and  firing. 

4.  Into  \vluit  clapges  ma}'  gun-carriages  be  divided? 
Into  movahle  and  staiioiiar]i  carriages. 

5.  Wliat  is  the  uge  of  inoroMe  carriages? 

They  are  u^ed  lor  tlie  transportation  of  tlie  pieces  as  Trell 
as  for  firing  them,  and  are  mounted  on  hirge  wheels.  They 
are  furnished  with  hml)ers. 

6.  Dcf^cribe  the  movable  carriage. 

It  connists  of  two  cheeks,  connected  together  and  with  a 
Btock  by  assembling  l)olts.  Tlie  front  part  sujiports  the  piece, 
and  rests  upon  an  "axle-tree  furnished  with  wheels,  the  rear 
end  of  the  stock  or  trail  resting  on  the  ground. 

7.  What  are  the  checks  7 

The  parts  of  tlie  carriage  between  which  the  piece  is  r  .iyi 
placed,  and  upon  which  the  trunnions  are  supported.       '- 

8.  What  is  the  wheel  composed  of? 

Of  a  nave  into  which  the  axle-tree  enters ;  of  a  certain 
tinmher  of  spokes  fastened  in  the  nave  ;  and  a  circumference 
which  is  composed  of  a  number  of  fellies  equal  to  half  the 
number  of  s])okes. 

9.  What  is  the  dish  of  a  wheel  ? 

The  inclination  outward  of  the  spokes,  when  fastened  iii 

the  nave. 

iO.   What  is  the  advantage  of  this  obliquity  of  the  spokes  1 
It  gives  elasticitj'  to  the  wheel,  and  protects  it  from  the 

effect  of  shocks,  which  would  destroy  it,  if  the  spokes  were 

in  the  same  plane. 

11.  What  is  tlie  object  of  giving  dish  to  a  wheel  ? 

For  the  purpose  of  making  the  body  of  the  carriage  wider; 
to  diminish  the  length  of  the  axle-tree,  thus  increasing  its 
strength  ;  to  throw'  the  mud  and  water  outside  the  wheels ; 
and  to  keep  the  wheel  close  against  the  carriage,  and  pre- 
vent any  tendency  to  run  off  the  axle. 

12.  How  are  movable  gun-carriages  distinguished? 
As  field,  mountain,  and  siege-carriages. 

13.  What  are  the  principal  considerations  to  be  kept  in 
view  in  the  construction  of  movable  carriages  ? 

In  firing,  the  carriage  should  yield  to  the  recoil.  Were 
it  fixed  immovably,  it  would  soon  be  destroyed,  ao  matter 


ARTILLERY   CARRL4(5ES  A^t)  MACHINES.        9^ 

how  great  its  solicilty.  Its  weight  sbojikl  be  proportional  to 
tiiat  of  tliii  piece.  If  too  heavy  it  would  soon  be  destroyed 
,^_-j  by  thu  shocks  of  the  piece.  If  too  light,  the  recoil 
■^  would  be  itiimoderate.  Its  weight  should  always  be  less 
than  tiiat  of  the  piece.  A  heavy  piece  upon  too  light  a  car- 
riage will  perforui  better  service  than  the  reverse  arrange- 
ment, since  the  effort  exerted  by  a  piece  depends  upon  its 
mass  muitipUcd  iuto  the  stjuare  of  the  velocity. 

14.  What  are  the  principal  considerations  to  be  kept  ia 
view  in  the  construction  of  field -carnages  ? 

Lightiie.^^s  and  strength  coinhined,  great  mobility  and  flex- 
ibility, and  a  low  centre  of  gravity,  in  order  to  surmount  all 
difficulties  in  the  field  which  must  frequently  arise  while  ar- 
tillery is  acting  witli  otl^r  troops, — ^to  rt-sist  the  concussion 
in  firing,  and  the  severe  jolting  produced  when  moving  ra- 
pidly over  uneven  ground. 

15.  Plow  many  kinds  of  field-gun  carriages  have  we? 
Three,  viz:  One  for  the  6  pdr.  gun  and  12-pdr.  howitzer; 

another  for  the  24-pdr.  howitzer;  and  the  third  for  the  12- 
pdr.  gun  and  32-pdr.  howitzer. 

16.  In  what  respect  are  tiiese  carriages  similar? 

In  all  having  the  same  kind  of  limber  and  the  sanip-sizecl 
wheels,  so  that  any  limber  or  wheel  may  be  used  with  any 
carriage;  though,  if  possible,  the  heaviest  wheel  (No.  2) 
should  be  used  on  the  carriage  of  the  three  heaviest  pieces, 
12 -pdr.  gun  and  24  and  32-pdr.  howitzers. 

17.  Describe  these  gun-carriages. 

They  consist  of  two  short  cheeks  of  wood,  bolted  upon  a 
stock  and  wooden  axle-body,  in  a  recess  of  which  fits  the 
iron  axle  on  which  the  wheels  are  placed.  The  stock  termi- 
nates in  a  trail  and  trail-plate  which  rests  on  the  ground, 
and  has  on  the  end  a  strong  ring  called  the  lunette,  which  is 
12r"l  P^'^^^^^^  ^^^  ^^^^  pintle  hook  when  the  piece  is  limbered. 
-■  In  the  stock  is  placed  an  elevating  screw-bos  of  bronze 
in  which  the  elevating  screw  fits. 

18.  Mention  other  parts  of  a  field-carriage. 
Cap-squares,  ear-{)lates,  trunnion-plates,  under-s»trap,  ele- 

rating-screw,  v>heel  guard  plate,  axle  tree,  trail-plate,  trail- 
handles,  [trolong- hooks,  pointing-rings,  washer-hooks,  lock- 
chain,  sponge-chain,  sponge  and  rammer  stop,  bolts,  rings, 
bauds,  hooks,  keys,  straps,  nuts,  and  nails. 


96  ttAJJD-BOOK    OIF  AllTlLLERt. 

19.  What  is  the  limber? 

It  consists  of  a  similar  axle-hody,  axle,  and  two  wheeks 
and  on  these  rests  a  frame-work  to  receive  the  tongue.  On 
top  of  the  whole  is  an  ammunition  box,  the  top  of  which 
forms  a  seat  for  three  cannoneers.  In  rear  of  the  axle-tree 
is  a  pinlle-hook  to  receive  the  lunette  of  the  trail.  Con- 
ne^ited  with  the  frame  work  in  front,  is  a  fixed  splinter-hat 
with  four  hooks,  to  which  are  attached  the  traces  of  the 
wheel-horses.  At  the  extremity  of  the  tongue  are  placed 
two  pole-chains,  by  which  the  tongue  or  pole  is  held  up,  and 
a  pole-yoke  with  two  movable  branches,  to  prevent,  as  much 
as  possible,  the  pole  from  oscillating  and  striking  the  horses. 

20.  What  is  the  use  of  the  limber? 

To  facilitate  the  movements  of  the  carriage.  By  means 
of  it  a  considerable  portion  of  ammunition  and  stores  may 
be  conveyed  for  the  immediate  use  of  the  piece,  some  of  the 
cannoneers  may  be  seated  on  the  boxes,  and  by  the  simple 
manner  in  which  it  is  attached  to  the  carriage,  the  greatest 
facility  is  afforded  for  coming  into  action,  or  in  retiring. 

21.*  Are  there  any  other  advantages  from  the  man-   j-jryj- 
ner  in  which  the  gun-carriage  and  limber  are  con-  •- 
nected  ? 

These  two  parts  thus  possess  all  the  advantages  of  a  four- 
wheel  carriage,  and  the  freedom,  of  motion  peculiar  to  each 
admits  of  their  passing  over  ground  uninjured,  or  without 
being  overturned  or  strained,  where  any  other  four-wheel 
carriage  would  invariably  faik 

22.  Describe  the  tnounlain  artillery  gun-carriage. 

It  is  formed  like  the  field-gun  carriage,  but  much  smaller, 
the  cheeks  not  being  formed  of  pieces  distinct  from  the  stock, 
but  all  three  mad(^  of  two  pieces  bolted  together.  The  axle- 
tree  is  of  wood,  which  lessens  the  recoil,  and  gives  an  elas- 
ticity to  the  whole  carriage,  better  adapted  to  resist  the 
shocks  of  firing.  The  wheels  are  but  thirty-eight  inches 
high.  Ordinarily,  over  rough  ground,  the  carriage  is  trans- 
ported on  the  backs  of  mules  ;  but  where  it  is  possible,  a 
pair  of  shafts  is  attached  to  the  trail  to  keep  it  from  the 
ground,  and  the  piece  is  drawn  on  its  carriage  by  harnessing 
one  of  the  pack  mules  to  it.  The  aminunitiou  is  carried  in 
ammunition  ])oxes  on  the  backs  of  mules, 

23.  Describe  the  prairvt-carrmge. 


ARTILLERY    CAREIAGES   AND    MACHINES.         97 

The  necessity  for  a  small  carriage  for  the  mountain-how- 
itzer when  used  on  our  western  prairies,  has  led  to  the  adop- 
tion of  a  special  carriage  for  that  service,  with  a  limber 
attached  as  in  a  field  carriage.  This  renders  the  carriage 
less  liable  to  overturn,  and  preferable  in  every  respect  to  the 
two-wheeled  one.  The  limber  is  furnished  with  two  ammu- 
-.oQ-i  nition  boxes,  placed  over  the  axle-tree,  and  parallel  to 
''  -■  it,  and  just  wide  enough Jor  one  row  of  shells  and  their 
•cartridges. 

24.  How  many  kinds  of  siege-gun  carriages  are  used  in 
our  service  ? 

Three  ;  one  for  the  12-pound  gun ;  another  for  the  18-pdr. ; 
•and  the  third  for  the  24-pound  gun  and  8-in.  howitzer. 

25.  In  what  respect  are  they  similar  ? 

They  are  all  constructed  in  the  same  manner,  differing 
only  in  their  dimensions.  All  the  limbers  and  wheels  are 
the  same,  so  that  they  can  be  used  in  common. 

26.  Describe  this  gun-carriage. 

It  is  similar  in  its  construction  to  the  field-carriage,  but  is 
joined  to  the  limber  in  a  different  way.  Projecting  upwards 
from  the  limber  and  in  rear  of  the  axle-tree,  is  placed  a 
pintle,  which  enters  a  hole  made  in  the  trail  from  the  under- 
side, and  a  lashing-chain  and  hook  keep  the  two  parts  to- 
gether when  once  in  position.  The  weight  of  the  trail  rest- 
ing on  the  rear  end  of  the  tongue  keeps  this  nearly  horizontal, 
and  relieves  the  horses  of  the  weight  of  it,  which,  as  it  must 
be  both  long  and  heavy,  is  too  much  for  the  horses  to  carry. 

The  splinter-bar  is,  as  in  field-carriages,  stationary,  but 
the  traces  of  the  next  team  are  attached  to  a  movable  bar 
which  is  connected  with  the  end  of  the  tongue.  The  tongue 
is  furnished  with  pole-chains,  but  no  yoke,  and  the  rest  of 
the  teams  are  harnessed  as  in  field-artillery.  The  axle-trees 
are  of  iron,  with  axle-bodies  of  wood;  which  last,  by  its 
elasticity,  renders  the  shock  from  the  piece  less  direct  and 
violent. 

1991  On  the  upper  surface  of  the  cheeks,  near  the  rear 
'*  -'  ends,  are  placed  two  projecting  bolts  which,  with  the 
curve  of  the  cheeks,  form  resting  places  for  the  trunnions, 
when  the  piece  is  in  position  for  transportation.  They  are 
called  traveling  trunnion-heds.  When  the  piece  is  in  this 
position,  its  breech  rests  upon  the  bolster,  which  is  a  curved 
o 


98  HAND-BOOK   OF   AilTlLLEIiY* 

block  of  wood,  bolted  to  the  upper  side  of  the  stock.  On 
each  side  of  the  trail,  and  perpendicular  to  it,  a  strong  ma- 
noeuvring bolt  is  placed  to  serve  as  places  to  apply  the  hand- 
spikes in  maua?uvering  the  carriage. 

27.  What  is  the  object  of  the  traveling  trunnion-beds  ? 
For  the  purpose  of  distributing  the  load  more  equally  over 

the  carriage. 

28.  Mention  the  parts  composing  the  limber. 

The  fork,  the  splinter-bar,  the  hounds,  the  sweep-bar,  the 
tongue,  the  pintle,  the  lashing-chain,  the  axle-tree  (iron). 
The  sweep-bar  is  of  iron,  and  on  it  rests  the  trail,  which  by 
its  weight  keeps  up  the  tongue. 

29.  Why  is  it  unnecessary  for  siege-carriages  to  have  the 
same  degree  of  mobility  and  flexibility  as  field-carriages  ? 

Because  siege-carriages  are,  properly  speaking,  transpor- 
tation wagons  for  use  on  roads,  and  never  intended  for  ma- 
noeuvring with  troops. 

30.  How  many  horses  does  the  transportation  of  siege- 
guns  require  ? 

A  24-pdr.  requires  ten  horses  (five  drivers) ;  a  12  or  18-pdr., 
eight  horses  (four  drivers). 

31.  What  are  stationary  gun-carriages  used  for? 

To  fire  the  piece  from,  and  not  to  transport  it  except  for 
short  distances. 

32.  For  what  service  are  these  carriages  used  ?  r,  gn 
For  garrison  and  sea-coast  pieces ;  although  the  siege-  ^ 

gun-carriages  just  described  may  also  be  used  in  a  fortifica- 
tion or  garrison.  Mortar-beds,  to  be  described  hereafter,  are 
used  either  for  siege  or  garrison  service. 

33.  What  are  the  chief  requisites  for  garrison  and  sea- 
coast  carriages  ? 

Strength,  durability,  and  facility  in  serving  the  guns,  as 
they  are  intended  only  for  the  works  of  a  place,  coast-batte- 
ries, and  situations  where  they  are  permanentl}^  fixed. 

34.  Why  should  these  carriages  be  required  to  possess 
great  strength  and  durability  ? 

Unless  made  strong  they  would  soon  be  shaken  by  the 
continued  and  rapid  tire  which  the  defense  of  a  work  may 
demand;  and  from  their  constant  exposure  to  the  weather 
they  would  soon  decay  if  made  of  a  very  perishable  material. 

35.  Is  the  weight  of  garrison  carriages  a  matter  of  great 
importance  ? 


ARTILLERY   CARRIAGES  AND   MACHINES.         99 

It  is  of  less  importance  in  this  class  of  carriages  than  in 
any  other,  as  they  are  seldom  removed  from  their  situations : 
their  weij^ht  adds  but  little  to  the  labor  of  running  them  up. 

36.  Mention  the  different  stationary  carriages. 

The  carringe  from  which  a  mortar  is  fired,  called  its  hed ; 
the  barbette-carriage ;  the  columbiad-carriagc ;  the  casemate- 
carriage  ;  and  that  for  the  24-pdr.  iron  howitzer,  called  the 
flank  casemate-carriage. 

37.  How  many  kinds  of  siege-mortar  beds  have  we  ? 
Four;  the  8-in.,  10-in.,  the  stone,  the  coehorn. 

,0-.-]       38.    Which  of  these  are  alike? 

■'       The  first  three,  differing  only  in  dimensions.     They 
are  made  of  cast-iron,  which  has  very  little  elasticity. 

39.  Describe  these  beds. 

They  consist  of  two  cheeks,  joined  by  two  transoms,  all 
cast  together  in  the  same  piece.  The  manoeuvring  bolts, 
placed  on  each  side,  one  near  each  end  of  the  cheeks,  are 
made  of  wrought  iron,  and  set  in  the  mould  when  the  bed  is 
cast. 

On  the  front  transom  is  fastened  a  wooden  bolster,  grooved 
to  receive  the  elevating  quoin.  Notches,  on  the  underside 
of  the  front  and  rear  of  the  cheeks,  give  hold  to  the  hand- 
spikes in  throwing  the  carriage  to  the  right  or  left. 

40.  Describe  the  coehorn  mortar-bed. 

It  is  made  of  a  block  of  oak-wood,  in  one  piece,  or  two  pieces 
joined  together  with  bolts.  A  recess,  for  the  trunnions  and 
part  of  the  breech  is  made  in  the  top  of  the  bed ;  and  the 
trunnions  are  kept  in  their  places  by  plates  of  iron  bolted 
down  over  them.  Two  iron  handles  are  bolted  to  the  bed  on 
each  side,  by  which  four  men  can  carry  the  bed  with  the 
mortar  in  its  place. 

41.  Describe  the  eprouvette  mortar-bed. 

It  consists  of  a  block  of  wood,  on  the  top  of  which  is 
countersunk  and  bolted  the  bed-plate,  which  is  a  heavy  cir- 
cular plate  of  cast-iron  having  a  rectangular  recess  with 
sloping  sides,  so  as  to  make  it  longest  at  the  bottom.  Into 
this  recess  the  sole  of  the  mortar  slides.  The  wooden  block 
is  bolted  to  a  stone  block  of  the  same  size,  which  is  firmly 
placed  in  the  ground  on  a  masonry  foundation. 

42.  Describe  the  heavy  sea-coast  mortar  bed. 

J,  Q2-|       The  bed  for  the  heavy  ten-inch  mortar  is  the  only 
■'  one  which  has  yet  been  adopted.  The  cheeks  are  of  cast- 


100  HAND-BOOK   OP  ARTILLERY. 

iron,  and  somewhat  similar  in  form  to  those  in  the  beds  of 
siege-mortars  ;  but  in  the  front,  the  cheelcs  turn  up  to  receive 
between  them  the  front  transom,  which  has,  countersunk  in 
and  bolted  to  it,  an  elevating  screw-bed,  tln-ough  which  works 
an  inclined  elevating  screw,  which  rises  or  falls  by  turning 
the  nut,  fitted  on  it  by  means  of  a  lever  inserted  into  mor- 
tises cut  in  the  direction  of  the  radii  of  the  circular  nut. 

Both  the  transoms  are  made  of  wood,  connected  with  the 
cheeks  by  mortises  and  tenons,  and  secured  by  bolts  running 
through,  and  nuts  on  the  outside.  One  of  these  bolts  at 
each  end,  is  longer  than  the  others,  and  the  projecting  ends 
are  made  use  of  as  manojuvring  bolts.  Directly  behind  and 
underneath  the  position  for  the  trunnions,  a  bronze  bed-piece 
is  placed  to  receive  the  shock  of  the  piece.  It  consists  of  a 
large  beam  of  bronze,  with  each  end  well  let  in  to  the  face 
of  the  cheek.  The  use  of  the  elevating  screw  instead  of  the 
quoin,  is  rendered  necessary  by  the  great  mass  of  metal  to 
be  raised  or  lowered  in  sighting  the  piece. 

43.  What  is  a  harhette  carriage  ? 

It  is  a  carriage  belonging  to  the  class  denominated  im- 
movable, on  which  a  gun  is  mounted  to  fire  over  a  parapet ; 
and  a  barbette  gun  is  any  gun  mounted  on  a  barbette-car- 
riage. 

44.  How  many  forms  of  the  barbette-carriage  are  in  use 
in  the  service  ? 

Two :  one  for  iron  guns  and  sea-coast  howitzers  (12,  18, 
24,  32,  42-pdrs.,  and  8  and  10-in.) ; -and  one  fOr  the  colum- 
biads. 

45.  Of  how  many  parts  are  barbette-carriages  com-  r^o., 
posed?  lA^^^ 

Of  a  gun-carriage  and  a  chassis. 

46.  Describe  the  gun-carriage. 

It  is  formed  of  two  upright  pieces  of  timber,  nearly  verti- 
cal, behind  whicli  are  placed  two  inclined  braces,  mortised 
into  the  uprights,  and  designed  to  receive  the  force  of  the 
recoil,  the  whole  forming  the  cheeks,  whicli  are  firmly  con- 
nected and  braced  by  transoms  and  assembling  bolts,  thus 
forming  a  triangular  i'ramewoYk,  which  is  less  liable  than  any 
other  form  to  become  deformed  from  the  shocks  of  the  gun. 
A  horizontal  piece  (the  transom  and  axle-tie)  runs  from  front 
to  rear  between  the  cheeks,  connecting  the  axle-body  and 


ARTILLEKY   CARRIAGES   AND   MACHINES.      J  01 

rear  transom.  The  trunnion -bed  is  at  the  top  of  the  upright, 
where  it  is  joined  to  the  brace ;  and  the  breech  of  the  gun  is 
supported  on  an  elevating  screw,  working  into  a  screw-box 
placed  in  the  rear  end  of  the  transom  and  axle-tie.  The 
front  transom  is  just  under  the  gun ;  the  middle  transom  is 
between  the  braces;  and  the  rear  transom  is  at  the  lower 
end  of  the  braces,  and  under  the  transom  and  axle-tie,  into 
which  it  is  notched ;  the  lower  part  of  this  transom  is  notched 
to  receive  the  tongue  of  the  chassis  on  which  it  slides.  Be- 
tween this  transom  and  the  transom  and  axle-tie,  the  end  of 
a  lunette  is  placed  projecting  to  the  rear,  and  fastened  by  a 
bolt  for  the  purpose  of  attaching  a  limber  to  the  carriage. 

The  feet  of  the  uprights  and  front  end  of  the  transom  and 
axle-tie  are  joined  to  an  axle-bod3%  in  which  an  iron  axle  is 
placed.  On  the  ends  of  the  .axle  are  fitted  cast-iron  rollers, 
-JO  1-1  which  rest  on  the  rails  of  the  chassis,  and  support  the 
-'  front  of  the  carriage.  On  the  outside  of  the  roller  is 
placed  an  octagonal  projection,  on  which  the  cast-iron  nave 
of  the  wheel  fits,  secured  by  a  washer  and  linch-pin.  The 
spokes  of  the  wheels  are  wood,  inclosed  within  heavy  iron 
tires.  Manoeuvering  bolts  are  inserted  in  front  of  the  feet  of 
the  uprights,  and  in  the  carriages,  for  pieces  heavier  than  a 
24-pdr.,  in  rear  of  these  feet  also.  These  bolts  and  the 
spokes  of  the  wheels  form  the  points  of  application  for  the 
handspikes,  in  manoeuvering  the  piece.  Manoeuvering  sta- 
ples are  placed  in  front  of  the  feet  of  the  braces,  for  the  pur- 
pose of  using  handspikes  to  raise  the  rear  of  the  carriage 
from  the  tongue  of  the  chassis  in  running  to  and  from  bat- 
tery. 

47.  What  pieces  go  on  the  same  carriage  ? 

The  32-pound  gun,  and  8-inch  howitzer.     All  other  pieces 
have  separate  carriages. 

48.  How  many  sizes  of  rollers  are  used  ? 

Two  :  one  for  the  carriages  of  the  12, 18,  and  24-pounders; 
the  other  for  the  remaining  carriages. 

49.  Are  cap-squares  used  with  these  carriages  ? 
No. 

50.  What  other  purposes  do  the  wheels  subserve  besides 
assisting  in  manoeuvering  the  gun-carriage  ? 

In  transporting  the  piece  on  its  carriage  for  short  dis- 
tances, as  from  one  front  of  a  fort  to  another. 


102  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

51.  Doscrilie  the  chassis. 

It  consists  of  two  rails  and  a  tongue,  joined  by  three  tran- 
soms. The  tongue  is  iu  the  middle,  and  projects  considerably 
beyond  the  rails,  to  the  rear.  At  each  end  of  the  rails  on 
top,  a  hard  piece  of  wood  is  notched  in,  and  bolted.  They 
are  called  hurters  and  counter-hurters,  and  their  use  is  r-^gg 
to  prevent  the  gun  carriage  from  running  otf  the  chas-  ^ 
sis.  Kail-plates  of  iron  to  protect  the  wooden  rails  are  let 
iu  to  the  outside  of  the  rails.  At  the  rear  end  of  the  tongue, 
a  swinging  prop  is  placed  to  support  the  end  of  the  tongue 
when  the  piece  is  run  back.  The  lower  side  of  the  end  of 
the  tongue  is  notched  out,  and  a  manojuvering  loop  fixed 
there,  with  a  bolt  and  screws,  to  assist  in  handling  the  chas- 
sis. On  the  under  side  of  each  rail,  opposite  the  rear  tran- 
som, a  mortise  is  formed,  for  the  reception  of  a  socket  of  iron 
which  receives  the  handle  of  the  traverse-wheel  fork.  Each 
of  these  forks  receives  a  traverse- wheel,  joined  to  it  by  an 
axle-bolt,  and  these  support  the  rear  end  of  the  chassis.  The 
front  end  is  supported  on  a  pintle-plate  of  iron ;  through 
•which,  and  up  into  the  middle  of  the  front  transom,  passes  a 
pintle  or  bolt,  which  serves  as  a  pivot  around  which  the 
whole  system  moves. 

52.  In  permanent  batteries,  how  are  the  pintle  and  tra- 
verse circle  fixed  ? 

The  pintle  is  fixed  in  a  block  of  stone,  and  the  traverse 
circle  is  an  iron  plate  set  also  in  stone. 

53.  In  temporary  batteries,  how  is  the  pintle  attached  ? 

To  a  wooden  bolster  which  is  covered  by  a  circular  cast- 
iron  plate,  and  attached  by  bolts  to  a  wooden  cross  picketed 
firmly  into  the  ground. 

54.  How  may  a  temporary  traverse  circle  be  made  ? 

Of  plank,  pinned  to  sleepers,  and  fastened  to  pickets,  or 
secured  to  string-pieces,  which  connect  the  traverse  circle 
with  the  pintle-cross. 

55.  What  retains  the  traverse- wheels  and  their  forks  r^^Q 
in  their  places  ? 

The  weight  of  the  carriage  and  gun,  and  the  form  of  the 
socket  and  handle  of  the  fork. 

56.  Where  are  the  handspikes  applied  in  traversing  the 
carriage  ? 

To  the  pivot-bolts  of  the  traverse- wheels,  which  project  to 
the  rear ;  or  under  the  traverse  wheels. 


ARTILLERY   CARRIAGES  AND   MACHINES.      103 

57.  Why  does  the  chassis  slope  towards  the  front  ? 

In  order  to  diminish  the  recoil,  and  aid  in  running  the 
piece  into  battery. 

58.  Describe  the  columbiad  gun-carriage. 

It  is  a  triangular  frame-work,  consisting  on  each  side  of 
an  upright,  a  horizontal  rail  or  tie,  and  a  brace,  firmly  mor- 
tised and  bolted  together,  forming  the  cheeks,  which  are 
joined  by  a  transom  at  each  end.  These  project  below  the 
lower  surfaces  of  the  ties,  and  fit  in  between  the  rails  of  the 
chassis,  serving,  like  the  flanges  on  the  rollers  in  the  other 
barbette-carriages,  to  prevent  the  gun-carriage  from  slipping 
sideways  off  the  chassis. 

Through  the  front  transom,  and  near  the  front  ends  of  the 
ties,  an  iron  axle-tree  is  passed,  working  in  iron  boxes  fitting 
in  the  ties.  On  the  projecting  ends  of  this  axle-tree  the 
rollers  or  manaiuvring  wheels  are  fixed  (the  axes  of  which, 
are  eccentric  with  the  axis  of  the  axle-tree)  the  extreme  ends 
of  the  axle,  being  octagonal  in  shape,  to  fit  the  wrench  of  the 
iron  handspike. 

These  eccentrics  are  so  arranged  that  when  the  centres  of 
the  wheels  are  at  their  lowest  points,  the  surfaces  of  the 
wheels  bear  on  the  rails  of  the  chassis  and  raise  the  gun- 
carriage  tie  from  it ;  and  when  the  centres  are  at  the  highest 
points,  the  surfaces  of  the  wheels  do  not  touch  the  rails,  and 
jg^i  the  ties  are  in  contact  with  them.*  A  similar  arrange- 
^  ment  is  made  for  the  rear  part  of  the  carriage,  except 
that  the  axle  does  not  extend  all  the  way  through,  but  the 
wheel  on  each  side  has  a  projecting  piece  of  axle  which 
works  into  a  box  placed  near  the  end  of  the  tie. 

The  wheel  is  thrown  into  or  out  of  gear,  that  is,  made  to 
bear  on  the  rail  of  the  chassis  or  relieved  from  it,  by  turning 
the  axle  with  a  wrench  placed  on  the  octagonal  end.  In  the 
direction  of  the  radii  of  the  wheels,  but  inclined  outwards, 
mortises  are  placed  for  the  reception  of  the  end  of  the  iron 
handspikes,  by  acting  on  which  while  inserted  the  wheels  are 
turned,  and  the  carriage  moved  back  and  forth  on  the  chassis. 
Ordinarily,  when  the  wheels  are  thrown  into  gear,  the  car- 
riage being  back,  it  will  run  into  battery  of  itself. 

*  A  couple  of  notches  or  indentations  are  made  on  the  ends  of  the  eccentric 
axles.  When  these  notches  are  in  a  vertical  line,  the  wheels  rest  on  the  rails; 
but  wheu  they  are  in  a  horlzoutal  or  inclined  line,  the  ties  rest  on  tlum. 


104  HAND-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

The  elevating  arrangement  consist  of  an  elevating-screw, 
working  into  a  screw-bed,  which  slides  in  a  vertical  box,  and 
carries  on  the  top  of  it  a  movable  paid  to  fit  into  the  notches 
cut  in  the  breech  of  the  gnn,  in  order  to  give  considerable 
elevations.  For  the  purpose  of  transferring  the  pawl  from 
one  notch  to  the  next,  it  has  a  slit  in  it,  through  which  the 
elevating  bar  is  passed,  and  the  gun  supported  by  making 
use  of  the  edge  of  the  elevating-box  as  a  fulcrum.  This  ar- 
rangement is  over  the  rear  transom. 

59.  Describe  the  chassis  of  the  columbiad  carriage. 

It  consists,  like  those  used  with  other  barbette  car-  r^rto 
riages,  of  two  rails  connected  by  three  transoms ;  but  '- 
the  tops  of  the  rails  are  shod  with  iron  plates,  and  the  rear 
hurters  are  the  large  heads  of  heavy  bolts  which  pass  entirely 
through  the  rails.  The  front  hurters  are  fixed  to  the  front 
transom  by  a  hea\y  plate  and  bolt. 

Traverse-wheels  are  placed  under  both  front  and  rear 
transoms,  and  the  chassis  moves  on  a  pintle  passing  through 
the  middle  transom.  Two  of  these  wheels  are  placed  under 
each  end  of  the  chassis,  their  axes  being  kept  in  place  by 
straps  bolted  to  the  transoms.  Recesses  are  cut  in  the  under- 
side of  the  transom,  for  the  wheels  to  turn  in.  This  chassis 
has  no  tongue. 

60.  Of  iiow  many  parts  are  casemate  carriages  composed? 
Like  barbette-carriages,  of  a  gun-carriage  and  chassis. 

61.  Describe  the  gun-carriage. 

It  consists  of  two  cheeks,  joined  together  by  as  many  tran- 
soms, and  supported  in  front  by  an  axle-tree  on  truck  wheels, 
and  in  rear  on  the  rear  transom,  which  is  notched  to  fit  the 
tongue  of  the  chassis.  Each  cheek  is  formed  of  two  pieces, 
one  on  top  of  the  other,  and  connected  by  dowels  and  bolts. 
On  the  underside,  near  the  front,  a  notch  is  cut  for  the  re- 
ception of  the  axle-tree,  which  is  of  oak ;  and  nearly  over 
the  axle,  on  the  upper  side  of  the  cheek,  the  trunnion-bed  is 
placed.  The  rear  of  the  upper  piece  of  the  cheek  is  cut  into 
steps,  which  give  a  better  hold  for  the  assembling-bolts,  than 
a  uniform  slope,  and  give  purchases  for  the  hand-spikes,  in 
elevating  the  piece.  On  the  inside  of  each  cheek,  just  r^gj^ 
in  rear  of  the  axle,  a  vertical  guide  is  fixed  to  keep  the  ^ 
carriage  on  the  chassis.  It  is  of  wood,  and  bolted  to  the 
front  transom  and  axle-tree.     The  top  of  the  front  transom 


AliTlLLERY   CARRIAGES  AND   MACHINES.      J  05 

is  hollowed  out,  to  admit  the  depression  of  the  piece.  Be- 
hind the  rear  transom  and  at  the  notch  cut  in  it,  there  is  an 
eccentric  roller,  so  arranged  as  to  bear  the  Avcight  of  the  rear 
part  of  the  carriage,  or  not,  according  as  it  is  thro^Yn  in  or 
out  of  gear. 

Near  the  rear  end  of  each  cheek,  and  outside,  a  heavy 
trail-handle  of  iron  is  placed,  and  used  in  manoeuvring  the 
piece.  On  the  ends  of  the  axle  truck-wheels  are  placed, 
with  mortises  sloping  outwards  in  the  direction  of  the  radii, 
for  the  insertion  of  the  handspikes  in  running  from  battery. 

The  elevating  apparatus  consists  of  a  cast-iron  bed -plate, 
secured  to  the  rear  transom ;  an  elevating- screw  and  brass 
nut;  the  nut  being  acted  on  by  an  oblique-toothed  wheel, 
turned  by  a  handle  placed  outside  the  right  cheek. 

62.  Describe  the  chassis. 

It  consists  of  two  rails  and  a  tongue,  joined  by  two  tran- 
soms, and  supported  on  traverse-wheels  in  front  and  rear. 
The  track  on  each  rail  is  curved  up  at  each  end,  and  pro- 
vided with  hurters  to  prevent  the  carriage  from  running  ojff 
the  chassis.  A  prop  fastened  under  the  rear  end  of  the 
tongue  prevents  the  chassis  from  upsetting  backwards  in 
firing  heavy  charges,  and  may  be  used  as  a  point  of  support 
in  raising  the  chassis.  An  iron  fork  is  bolted  to  the  under 
side  of  the  front  end  of  the  tongue,  to  which  is  bolted  an 
iron  tongue.  An  opening  in  the  masonry  below  the  em- 
brasure, is  left  for  this  tongue,  and  it  is  secured  in  its  place 
1401  ^^^  dropping  the  pintle  from  the  embrasure  down 
■'  through  the  eye  of  the  tongue. 

C3.    Where  is  the  Jlank  co.scinate  carriage  employed? 

It  is  especially  adapted  to  the  mounting  of  the  24-pdr.  iron 
howitzer  in  the  flanks  of  casemate  batteries,  for  defending 
the  ditch;  and  both  the  gun-carriage  and  chassis  arc  nar- 
rower and  lighter  than  the  other  casemate  carriages. 

64.   Describe  the  gun-carriage. 

The  cheeks  are  made  of  white  oak,  and  connected  by  two 
iron  transoms,  the  front  one  projecting  below  the  cheeks, 
and  resting  on  the  chassis  with  a  projection  on  the  bottom  of 
it,  fitting  in  between  the  rails.  The  bottom  of  the  trail  has 
the  same  slope  as  the  upper  surface  of  the  chassis  on  which 
it  rests ;  so  that  when  its  eccentric-roller  is  out  of  gear,  the 
rear  parts  of  the  cheeks  fit  the  rails.  The  remaining  por- 
5* 


106  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

tion  of  the  bottom  of  the  cheek  makes  an  angle  with  the 
rail,  and  has  in  front  a  fork,  and  a  roller  ^yhich  runs  on  the 
rail  of  the  chassis  when  the  eccentric  is  in  gear.  Each  cheek 
has  on  the  side  a  trail-handle  and  a  manoeuvring-ring.  In 
rear  of  the  rear  transom  is  placed  an  eccentric-roller,  having 
a  pit»jection  in  the  middle  of  it,  just  large  enough  to  fit  in 
between  the  rails  of  the  chassis,  and  guide  the  trail  of  the 
carriage.  When  this  roller  is  in  gear,  the  weight  of  the 
trail  rests  upon  ?7,  while  that  of  the  front  part  of  the  car- 
riage is  thrown  upon  the  front  rollers,  and  the  piece  is  then 
easily  run  in  and  out  of  battery;  but  the  roller  being  out  of 
gear,  as  when  the  piece  is  about  to  be  fired,  the  weight  rests 
npon  the  rear  part  of  the  cheeks  and  the  front  transom,  and 
friction  is  brought  into  play  to  diminish  the  recoil.  Cap-  r-.  ^ ^ 
squares  are  used  with  this  carriage.  ^ 

65.   Describe  the  chassis. 

It  consists  simply  of  two  rails  3  in.  apart,  and  joined  by 
four  transoms  and  assembling-bolts.  Hurters  on  the  rear 
ends  of  the  rails  only  are  used,  as  the  bottom  projection  of 
the  front  transom  prevents  the  carriage  running  too  far  into 
battery.  The  front  end  of  the  chassis  rests  on  the  sole  of 
the  embrasure.  The  end  is  provided  with  a  pintle-plate  and 
a  strap  of  half-in.  iron  through  which  the  pintle  passes  to  the 
masonry  beneath.  The  rear  of  the  chassis  is  supported  by 
an  iron  prop,  the  lower  end  of  which  is  attached  to  two  tra- 
verse-wheels. 

(^Q.  What  kind  of  carriages  have  been  recommended  for 
use  in  garrisons,  instead  of  wooden  ones  ? 

Wrought-iron  carriages,  for  all  except  the  flank  casemate ; 
all  made  in  a  similar  manner,  differing  only  in  weight  and 
dimensions. 

Q7.   What  is  the  objection  to  cast  iron  ? 

Its  weight,  and  its  great  liability  to  splinter  when  struck 
by  shot. 

68.  Of  how  many  parts  is  this  wrought-iron  carriage  com- 
posed ? 

Like  the  wooden  ones,  of  a  gun-carriage  and  chassis. 

69.  Describe  the  gun-carriage. 

It  consists  of  two  cheeks  of  thick  sheet-iron,  each  one  of 
which  is  strengthened  by  three  Hanged  iron-plates  bolted  to 
the  cheeks.  Along  the  bottom  of  each  cheek,  an  iron  shoe 
is  fixed  with  the  end  bent  upwards. 


ARTILLERY   CARRIAGES   AND   MACHINES.      107 

I  ,o-|  I^  front,  this  bent  end  is  bolted  to  the  flange  of  the 
'^^  front  strengthening  plate.  In  rear  the  bent  portion  is 
longer,  and  terminated  at  top  by  another  bend,  which  serves 
as  a  point  of  application  for  a  lever  on  a  ^vheel,  when  run- 
ning to  and  from  battery.  The  trimnion-plates  fit  over  the 
top  ends  of  the  strengthening  plates,  which  meet  around  the 
bed,  and  are  fastened  to  the  flanges  of  the  latter  by  movable 
bolts  and  nuts. 

The  checks  are  joined  together  by  transoms  made  of  bar- 
iron.  They  are  parallel  to  each  other,  and  in  order  that  the 
hase  ring  on  the  gun  may  not  interfere  with  giving  it  the 
full  elevation  by  striking  against  them,  it  is  proposed  to  dis- 
pense with  the  base  ring  in  sea-coast  and  garrison  pieces, 
and  to  retain  the  preponderance  by  reducing  the  swell  of  the 
muzzle. 

The  front  of  the  carriage  is  mounted  on  an  axle-tree,  with 
tnick  wheels  siniiiar  to  the  wooden  casemate  carriages. 

70.  Describe  the  chassis. 

It  consists  of  two  rails  of  wrought  iron,  the  cross  section 
of  each  being  in  form  of  a  T,  the  flat  surface  on  top  being 
for  the  reception  of  the  shoe-rail  of  the  gun-carriage.  The 
rails  are  parallel  to  each  other,  and  connected  by  iron  tran- 
soms and  braces.  The  chassis  is  supported  on  traverse 
wheels. 

A  prop  is  placed  under  the  middle  transom  of  the  chassis, 
to  provide  against  sagging. 

71 .  What  carriage  is  used  for  conveying  ammunition  for 
a  field  battery? 

The  CAISSON. 

72.  Describe  it. 

A  four-wheel  carriage,  consisting  of  two  parts,  one  of 
-.  .  o-i  which  is  a  limber  similar  to  that  of  the  gun  carriage, 
-■  and  connected  in  a  similar  way  by  a  wooden  stock  and 
lunette. 

On  tlie  axle-body  of  the  rear  part,  and  parallel  to  the 
stock,  are  placed  three  rails  upon  which  are  fastened  two 
ammunition  boxes,  one  behind  the  other,  and  similar  to  the 
one  on  the  limber ;  so  that  the  caisson  has  three  ammunition 
boxes  which  will  seat  nine  cannoneers.  The  interior  com- 
partments of  the  ammunition  boxes  vary  according  to  the 
nature  of  the  ammunition  with  which  they  are  loaded.  In 
rear  of  the  last  box  is  placed  a  spare  wheel,  axle  of  iron. 


108  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLEflt. 

with  a  chain  anil  toggle  at  the  end  of  it.  On  the  rear  end  of 
the  niidtlle  rail  is  placed  a  carriage  hook,  similar  to  a  pintle 
hook,  to  which  the  lunette  of  a  gun  carriage  wliosje  limber 
has  become  disabled,  may  be  attached,  and  the  gun  carried 
off  the  field. 

The  caisson  has  the  same  turning  capacity  and  mobility  as 
the  gun  carriage,  so  that  it  can  follow  the  piece  in  all  its 
manceuvres,  if  necessary.  It  also  carries  a  spare  wheel, 
spare  pole,  &c. 

73.  What  provision  is  made  for  repairing  the  carriages  of 
a  field  battery  w4icu  required  ? 

Every  field  battery  is  provided  with  a  forge. 

74.  Describe  this  wagon. 

It  consists,  besides  the  limber,  of  a  frame  work  on  which 
is  fixed  the  bellows,  fire-place,  &c.  Behind  the  bellows  is 
placed  a  coal-box,  which  has  to  be  removed  before  the  bel- 
lows can  be  put  in  position.  In  the  limber  box  are  placed 
the  smith's  tools,  horse-shoes,  nails,  and  spare  parts  (iron)  of 
carriages,  harness,  &c. 

75.  Describe  the  hattcry  wagon.. 

It  consists,  besides  the  limber,  of  a  long-bodied  cart  with 
a  round  top,  which  is  connected  with  the  limber  in  the  same 
way  as  all  other  field  carriages.  The  lid  opens  on  r,  .^ 
hinges  placed  at  the  side ;  and  in  rear  is  fixed  a  mova-  ^ 
ble  forage  rack  for  carrying  long  forage.  One  of  these  wa- 
gons accompanies  each  field-battery,  for  the  purpose  of  trans- 
porting carriage-maker's  and  saddler's  tools,  spare  parts  of 
carriages,  harness  and  equipments,  and  rough  materials  for 
replacing  different  parts. 

Both  this  and  the  forge  are  made  of  equal  mobility  with 
the  other  field  carriages,  in  order  to  accompany  them  wher- 
ever they  may  be  required  to  go. 

7Q.  How  many  kinds  of  wheels  are  employed  for  field 
carriages  ? 

Two :  No.  1  for  the  6-pdr.  gun  carriage,  the  caisson,  the 
forge,  the  battery-wagon,  and  for  the  limbers  of  all  field  car- 
riages. No.  2  for  the  24-pdr.  howitzer  and  the  12-pdr.  gun 
carriages. 

77.   In  what  respects  are  these  wheels  similar  ? 

They  are  of  the  same  form  and  height,  and  they  fit  on  the 
same  axle-tree  arm.  The  height  is  57  inches,  iind  each 
wheel  is  composed  of  14  spokes  and  7  feilie&c 


AiltiLLERY   CARRIAGES  AND   MACHI^^ES.      l09 

78.  How  do  they  differ  ? 

In  the  diineDsions  of  their  parts,  and  in  strength  and 
weight. 

79.  What  is  the  weight  of  these  wheels  ? 
No.  1,  180  lbs.,  No.  2,  196  lbs. 

80.  What  are  the  weight  and  height  of  a  wheel  of  siege-^ 
gun  carriages  and  limbers  ? 

Weight  404  lbs.,  and  height  60  inches. 

81.  What  is  the  jwrtahlc  forge  designed  for  ? 

Service  in  a  mountainous  country,  where  wheeled  vehicles 
cannot  travel,  for  the  purpose  of  making  repairs,  not  only 
for  the  artillery  but  for  all  other  arms  of  service  taken  on 
Buch  expeditions. 
^  .--,       82.    What  is  the  mortar  ivagon  designed  for? 

■I       The  transportation  of  siege"  mortars  and  their  beds, 
or  of  guns  or  large  shot  and  shells. 

83.  Describe  this  wagon. 

The  limber  and  wheels  are  the  same  as  those  of  the  siege- 
gun  carriage.  The  body  consists  of  a  platform  of  rails  and 
transoms,  resting  on  an  axle-tree,  the  two  middle  rails  being 
prolonged  to  form  the  stock ;  six  stakes  or  standards  are  in- 
serted in  sockets  on  the  side  of  this  platform  and  used  to 
secure  the  load. 

The  side-rails  are  prolonged  to  the  rear,  and  furnish  pi- 
vots for  a  roller  placed  immediately  in  rear  of  the  platform. 
This  roller  has  holes  for  the  insertion  of  hand-spikes,  and  is 
used  in  loading  the  wagon ;  the  guns,  mortars,  &c.,  being 
drawn  up  on  the  stock. 

A  muzzle  bolster  on  the  stock  near  the  limber,  and  a 
breech-hurter  near  the  hind  part  of  the  wagon,  are  provided 
and  used  when  long  ordnance  is  transported  on  it. 

Mortars  are  usually  carried  mounted  on  their  beds. 

84.  What  is  the  use  of  the /z«n(i-ca?-^.?  ^       ' 
For  the  transportation  of  light  stores  in  siege  and  garrison 

service. 

85.  Describe  it. 

It  consists  of  a  light  body  with  shafts,  mounted  on  two 
wheels.  The  shafts  are  joined  together  at  the  ends,  and 
supjiorted  immediately  in  front  of  the  body  by  iron  legs. 

86.  What  is  the  use  of  the  hand  sling-cart  1 

,  .pi       It  is  used  in  siege  and  garrison  service  for  trans- 
■'  porting  artillery  short  distances. 


no  HAND-BOOK    OP   ARTILLERY. 

87.  Describe  it. 

It  is  a  two-wheeled  carriage  made  entirely  of  iron,  except 
the  pole,  which  is  of  oak.  The  axle-tree  is  arched  to  make 
it  stronger,  and  connected  with  the  pole  by  strong  wrought 
iron  straps  and  braces.  In  the  rear  of  the  axle  a  projection 
is  welded  to  receive  the  end  of  a  strong  hook.  The  end  of 
the  pole  terminates  in  a  ferule  and  an  eye.  The  eye  is  for 
the  purpose  of  attaching  to  the  cart  when  necessary,  a  lim- 
ber or  a  horse. 

88.  How  great  weights  can  be  transported  by  this  cart  ? 
It  should  not  be  used  with  heavier  weights  than  about 

4000  lbs.,  but  in  case  of  necessity  a  24  or  32-pd.  gun  may 
be  transported  on  it.  For  heavier  guns  or  material,  the 
large  sling-cart  drawn  by  horses  or  oxen  should  be  used. 

89.  What  is  the  field  and  siege  gin  and  its  use  ? 

It  consists,  like  all  gins,  of  two  legs  and  a  pry-pole,  a 
•windlass,  sheaves,  pulleys,  and  a  fall  or  rope,  and  is  used  for 
mounting  or  handling  guns,  or  other  heavy  bodies,  in  the 
field  or  in  the  trenches  of  a  siege.  The  legs  are  about  14^ 
feet  long  and  the  height  of  the  gin  about  12  feet. 

90.  How  does  the  garrison  gin  differ  from  the  field  and 
siege  gin  ? 

It  is  heavier  and  stronger,  as  it  is  used  for  mounting  hea- 
vier guns,  and  has  not  to  be  transported  like  the  other  with 
an  array  in  the  field.  The  legs  are  longer  and  the  gin  higher 
than  the  other. 

91.  Describe  the  casemate  gin. 

It  does  not  differ  from  the  garrison  gin  except  in  its  height 
(which  is  about  that  of  the  field  and  siege  gin)  and  the  thick- 
ness and  strength  of  the  parts. 


PRACTICAL   GUNNERY.  Ill 

147] 

PART  XIII. 


PRACTICAL  GUKNEEY. 

1 .   How  may  the  velocity  of  a  shot  or  shell  be  ascertained  ? 
Approximately  by  the  empirical  formula, 


Vac 


r=i600 

Where  F=initial  velocity. 

a^a  coefficient,  whose  value  depends  on  the  windage. 
c=charge  \ .    ^•, 

MJ=weight  of  ball  S 
The  values  of  a  are: 

Windage.  Values  of  a. 

0.175  ....  3.6 

0.125  ....  4.4 

0.090  ....  5.0 

2.  Does  a  shot  or  shell  continue  at  the  same  uniform  ve- 
locity during  its  flight  ? 

The  velocity  decreases  as  the  distance  increases,  in  a  pro- 
portion a  little  higher  than  the  squares  of  the  velocities 
throughout. 

3.  What  causes  a  decrease  in  the  velocity  of  a  shot  ? 
The  resistance  of  the  air,  which  varies  as  the  square  of 

the  velocity  of  the  shot. 

1481       '^'    With  balls  of  different  diameters,  and  equal  velo- 
-l  cities,  to  what  is  the  resistance  of  the  air  proportional  ? 

Their  surfaces,  or  the  squares  of  their  diameters. 

5.  Would  the  velocity  of  the  shot  be  increased  by  length- 
ening the  gun  ? 

Only  up  to  a  certain  point ;  in  a  proportion  which  is  nearly 
the  mean  ratio  between  the  square  and  cube  roots  of  the 
length  of  the  bore.  It  is  found  that  the  velocity  given  by 
long  guns  is  reduced  to  an  equality  with  that  of  short  guns 
within  a  short  distance  from  the  muzzle  when  fired  with 
similar  charges. 


112  -  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLliEt. 

6.  Would  the  velocity  of  a  shot  be  increased  by  entirely 
preventing  the  recoil,  or  by  adding  greatly  to  the  weight  of 
the  gun  ? 

In  neither  case  would  any  sensible  effect  be  produced  on 
the  velocit3^ 

7.  Would  the  velocity  of  the  shot  be  increased  by  using  a 
larger  charge  of  powder  ? 

Only  to  a  certain  point,  peculiar  to  each  gun ;  by  further 
increasing  the  charge  the  velocit}'  would  be  graduall}'  dimi- 
nished ;  yet  the  recoil  is  always  increased  by  an  increase  of 
charge. 

8.  What  is  the  ratio  of  the  velocities  of  shot,  when  of 
different  weights,  but  fired  with  similar  charges  ? 

The  velocities  are  inversely  as  the  square  roots  of  their 
weights. 

9.  What  is  the  ratio  of  the  velocities  of  shot  of  equal 
weights  when  fired  w  ith  different  charges  of  powder  ? 

Tlie  velocities  are  directly  as  the  square  roots  of  the 
charges. 

10.  How  may  the  velocity  be  increased  without  augment- 
ing the  charge  of  pov/der  ? 

By  decreasing  the  v.indage  ;  the  loss  of  velocity  by  a   r^.g 
given  windage  being  directly  as  the  windage.     From   ^ 
1-8  to  1-12  is  lost  by  a  windage  of  1-40  diameter. 

11.  What  is  meant  by  the  time  of  flight  of  a  shot  or  shell  ? 
The  time  during  which  it  is  passing  through  the  air  from 

the  piece  to  the  first  graze. 

12.  When  firing  with  common  shells  at  45°  elevation,  how 
is  the  time  of  flight  found  ? 

Extract  the  square  root  of  the  range  in  feet  and  divide  by 
4,  or  divide  the  range  in  feet  by  16  and  extract  the  square 
root  of  this  quotient. 

Note-. — Range  iu  feet=.^«-<2  x  cotangent  elevation. 
=l(jr*x  cotangent  elevation. 
=:]6<-  where  the  elevation  is  45°. 
Or  t=^  V  range  iu  feet  for  elevation  45°. 

13.  Having  the  time  of  flight,  hovr  is  the  range  ascer- 
tained ? 

Multiply  the  square  of  the  time  of  flight  by  16  for  the 
range  in  feet  (the  elevation  being  45°). 

14.  What  is  meant  by  the  penetration  of  projectiles  ? 


Feet. 

Inches. 

8 

6 

15 

0 

4 

6 

1 

10 

3 

0 

PRACTICAL    GUNNERY.  113 

The  depth  to  which  they  are  forced  when  fired  into  any 
resisting  medium. 

15.  What  deptli  do  shot  penetrate  ? 

The  penetration  of  l)alls  of  the  same  size,  with  different 
velocities  or  charges,  is  nearly  as  the*  squares  of  the  velo- 
cities ;  where  the  balls  are  of  different  sizes  the  penetration 
will  be  proportionate  to  their  diameters  multiplied  by  the 
density,  and  inversely  as  the  tenacity  of  the  medium. 

16.  Mention  the  depth  of  penetration  in  case  of  the  24- 
pdr.  siege  gun. 

-.  -Q-i     At  100  yards  a  24-pdr.  ball  with  a  charge  of  one-third 
-'  of  its  weight  will  penetrate  as  follows  : 

In  earth  of  old  parapets, 
"      "     recently  thrown  up, 
*'  Oak  wood,  sound  and  hard,     - 
"  Rubble  stone  masonry, 
"  Brick,  .  -  .  . 

17.  What  is  the  depth  of  penetration  of  field  pieces  ? 
Fired  at  the  distance  of  500  or  600  yards,  the  penetration 

will  be  from  4^  to  6  feet  in  parapets  recently  constructed,  and 
will  traverse  walls  of  ordinary  construction  ;  but  a  12-pounder 
is  necessary  to  make  a  breach  in  walls  of  good  masonry  and 
of  4  feet  in  thickness,  and  in  this  case  the  position  of  the  bat- 
tery must  be  favorable,  and  the  operation  a  slow  one. 

18.  In  attacking  a  post,  or  fortified  position,  in  what  man- 
ner should  the  fire  from  artillery  be  carried  on  ? 

Previous  to  an  assault,  the  artillery  ought  to  support  the 
other  troops  by  a  combined  fire  of  guns,  howitzers,  and  small 
mortars,  so  that,  if  possible,  the  fire  may  be  simultaneous,  as 
such  a  diversity  of  projectiles  would  tend  to  distract  the  de- 
fenders and  prevent  them  from  extinguishing  any  fire  among 
buildings,  besides  throwing  them  into  confusion  at  the  mo- 
ment of  assault.  In  cases  of  surprise,  when  immediate  action 
is  required,  the  above  method  cannot,  of  course,  be  practi- 
cable. 

19.  When  firing  guns  of  different  calibres  at  long  ranges, 
what  are  the  probabilities  of  hitting  the  object  ? 

As  the  squares  of  the  diameters  of  their  respective  shot, 
when  of  equal  density,  and  fired  with  proportional  charges. 


114:  HAND-BOOK   OF  ARTILLERY. 

[151 

PART   XIV. 


MISCELLANEOUS. 

1.  What  is  the  velocity  of  sound  in  the  air  ? 

At  the  temperature  of  33^^  the  mean  velocity  of  sound  is 
1100  feet  in  a  second.  It  is  increased  or  diminished  half  a 
foot  for  each  degree  of  temperature  above  or  below  33°. 

2.  How  can  the  distance  of  an  object  be  ascertained  by 
the  report  of  fire-arms  ? 

By  observing  the  number  of  seconds  that  elapse  between 
the  flash  and  the  report  of  a  gun,  and  multiplying  the  number 
by  the  velocity  of  sound  in  the  air. 

3.  What  is  momentum  ? 

The  force  possessed  by  a  body  in  motion;  and  is  mea- 
sured by  the  product  of  the  mass  of  the  body  into  its  velocity. 

4.  When  equal  masses  are  in  motion,  what  proportion  do 
their  momenta  bear  to  their  velocities  ? 

They  are  proportional  to  their  velocities. 

5.  When  velocities  are  equal,  what  proportion  do  their 
momenta  bear  to  their  masses  ? 

They  are  proportional  to  their  masses. 

6.  What  proportion  do  the  momenta  bear  to  each  other 
when  neither  the  masses  nor  velocities  are  equal  ? 

They  are  to  each  other  as  the  products  of  their  masses 
into  their  velocities  respectively. 

7.  What  is  the  average  weight  of  a  horse  ? 

About  1000  pounds.  r  i  ^o 

8.  What  space  does  a  horse  occupy  in  the  ranks;  in  L 
a  stall ;  and  at  a  picket  ? 

In  the  ranks  a  front  of  40  in.,  a  depth  of  10  feet;  in  a 
stall,  from  3^  to  4-^  feet  front;  at  picket  3  feet  by  9. 

9.  What  are  the  comparative  etfects  of  the  labor  of  a 
man,  and  that  of  a  horse  or  mule  ? 

Taking  the  useful  etfect  of  a  man's  daily  labor  as  unity,  a 
horse  can  carry  a  load  on  a  horizontal  plane,  4.8  to  6.1 
times;  and  a  mule,  7.Q  times  greater  than  a  man.  Taking 
a  man  with  a  wheel-barrow  as  unity,  a  horse  in  a  four-wheel 


MISCELLANEOUS.  115 

wagon  can  draw  17.5,  and  in  a  cart  24.3;  and  a  mule  in  a 
cart,  23.3  times  greater  bmxlen. 

10.  What  weight  is  an  artillery  horse  required  to  draw  ? 
Not  more  than  700  lbs.,  the  weight  of  the  carriage  iu eluded. 

11.  What  weight  can  a  team  of  four  horses  or  more,  draw 
with  useful  effect  ? 

Including  tlie  weight  of  carriage,  4  horses  can  draw  24  cwt., 
or  6  each;  6  horses,  30  cwt.,  5  each;  8  horses,  36  cwt.,  4^ 
each;  and  12  horses,  48  cwt.,  or  4  each.  It  is  usual  to  esti- 
mate the  weight  of  a  carriage  exceeding  12  cwt.  as  part  of 
the  load. 

12.  What  weights  are  carried  by  the  riding,  pack,  and 
draught  horses  respectively? 

A  horse  carrying  a  soldier  and  his  equipments,  (say 
225  lbs.)  travels  25  miles  in  a  day  (8  hours);  a  pack-horse 
can  carry  250  to  300  lbs.,  20  miles  a  day;  and  a  draught- 
horse,  1600  lbs.  23  miles  a  day,  weight  of  carriage  included. 

13.  What  are  the  usual  paces  for  horses  in  the  artillery? 
1531       Walk,  trot  and  gallop  ;  the  last  is  seldom  necessary. 

-'       14.    What  is  considered  an  ordinary  day's  march  for 
field  artillery,  and  rate  of  motion  ? 

An  ordinary  march  is  about  15  miles  at  2h  miles  per  hour 
for  6  hours;  this  must  depend  upon  the  condition  of  the 
horses,  state  of  the  roads,  and  various  other  circumstances. 
Horses  starting  fresh,  and  resting  after  their  work,  may,  on 
tolerable  roads,  perform  2  miles  in  half  an  hour ;  4  miles  in 
1^  hours ;  8  in  4,  and  16  in  10  hours. 

15.  What  is  the  rate  of  march  of  horse  artillery  and  ca- 
valry ? 

Walk,  3|  miles  per  hour,  or  1  mile  in  16  minutes ;  trot, 
7h  per  hour,  or  1  mile  in  8  minutes ;  manoeuvring  gallop,  at 
the  rate  of  11  miles  per  hour,  or  1  mile  in  3  minutes ;  cavalry 
charge,  24  miles  an  hour,  or  at  the  rate  of  1  mile  in  2k  mi- 
nutes. 

16.  At  what  rate  does  infantry  march  ? 

In  common  time,  90  steps=70  yards  in  1  minute,  or  2  miles 
680  yards  in  an  hour;  in  quick  time,  110  steps=86  yards  in 
1  minute,  or  2  miles  1613  yards  in  an  hour ;  in  double  quick, 
140  steps=109  yards  in  1  minute,  or  3  miles  1253  yards  in 
an  hour. 

17.  What  space  does  a  foot  soldier  occupy  in  the  ranks, 
and  what  is  his  average  weight  ? 


116  HAND-BOOK    OF   AimLLERY. 

A  front  of  20  in.,  and  a  depth  of  13  in.,  without  the  knap- 
sack ;  the  interval  between  the  ranks  is  13  in. ;  5  men  can 
stand  in  a  space  of  1  square  yard.  Average  weight  of  men, 
150  lbs.  each. 

18.  AYhat  is  the  daily  allowance  of  water  for  a  man  ?    r-.  -  < 
One  gallon,  for  all  purposes.  ^ 

19.  AVhat  is  it  for  a  horse  ? 
Four  gallons. 

20.  What  is  the  weight  of  a  bushel  of  oats  ;  or  of  wheat ; 
and  the  weight  of  hay  / 

40  lbs.,  or  32.14  lbs.  to  the  cubic  foot,  in  case  of  oats; 
60  lbs.  to  the  bushel,  or  48.21  lbs.  to  the  cubic  foot,  in  case 
of  wheat;  hay  pressed  in  bundles,  weighs  11  lbs.  per  cubic 
foot. 

21.  What  weight  does  an  infantry  soldier  carry  when  in 
marching  order  ? 

About  45  lbs.  in  all.  His  knapsack  when  packed  weighs 
24  lbs. ;  canteen  when  filled,  and  one  day's  provisions  in 
haversack,  5  lbs. ;  rifle,  musket,  sling,  and  bayonet,  lOi  lbs. ; 
belts,  complete,  including  20  rounds  of  ammunition,  6  lbs. 

22.  How  is  the  area  of  a  circle  found ; 

Square  the  diameter,  and  multiply  by  .7854  for  the  area ; 
or  square  the  circumference,  and  multiply  by  .07958  for  the 
same  result. 

23.  How  is  the  content  of  a  conical  frustum  found  ? 

Add  into  one  sura,  the  areas  of  the  two  ends  and  the  mean 
proportional  between  them ;  take  one-third  of  that  sum  for 
the  mean  area,  and  multiply  it  by  the  perpendicular  height 
of  the  frustum,  for  its  content. 

24.  How  is  the  mean  proportional  found  for  the  above  ? 

By  multiplying  the  areas  of  the  two  ends  together  and  ex- 
tracting the  square-root  of  their  product.     A  more  sim-   r-.  re: 
pie  rule  is  the  following :  As  the  diameter  of  the  large  ^ 
end  is  to  that  of  the  small  end,  so  is  area  of  base  to  mean 
proportional  required. 

25.  How  is  the  content  of  a  spherical  segment  found  ? 
From  three  times  the  diameter  of  the  sphere,  take  double 

the  height  of  the  segment,  then  multiply  the  remainder  by 
the  square  of  the  height,  and  this  product  by  .5236 ;  or,  to 
three  times  the  square  of  the  radius  of  the  segment's  base, 
add  the  square  of  its  height,  then  multiply  the  sum  by  the 
height,  and  this  product  by  .5236,  for  the  content. 


MISCELLANEOUS.  117 

26.  How  is  the  capacity  or  content  of  a  Gomer  chamber 
computed  ? 

This  chamber  being  the  frustum  of  a  cone  with  a  hemi- 
spherical bottom,  its  capacity  will  be  found  by  applying  the 
foregoing  rules,  viz :  first  find  the  content  of  the  frustum, 
then  that  of  the  spherical  segment  or  bottom,  and  add  their 
contents  into  one  sum  for  the  capacity. 

27.  How  is  the  content  of  a  rectangular  box  ascertained? 
Multiply  the  length  by  the  breadth,  and  this  product  by 

the  depth. 

28.  How  is  the  capacity  of  a  c.ylindcr  calculated? 
Multiply  the  area  of  the  base  by  the  height. 

29.  How  is  the  content  of  a  barrel  found  ? 

Multiply  half  the  sum  of  the  areas  of  the  two  interior  cir- 
cles, taken  at  the  head  and  bung,  by  the  interior  length  ;  or, 
to  the  area  of  the  head,  add  twice  the  area  at  the  bung,  nml- 
tiply  that  sum  by  the  length,  and  take  one-third  of  the  pro- 
duct for  the  content. 
^  _p-|       30.   What  is  meant  by  the  term,  enfilade  ? 

-'       Sweeping  the  whole  extent  of  a  work,  line  of  troops, 
deck  of  a  ship,  &c.,  with  shot  or  shells. 

31.  AVhat  does  defilade  mean  ? 

The  art  of  disposing  guns,  troops,  or  works  in  such  a  man- 
ner, that  they  shall  be  protected  from  a  plunging-fire  from 
adjoining  heights. 

32.  What  are  the  dimensions  required  for  an  earthen  pa- 
rapet to  resist  the  fire  of  field  or  siege  guns  ? 

6  feet  for  6-pdrs. ;  14  feet  for  12-pdrs. ;  18  feet  for  24  or 
18-pdrs. ;  four  feet  of  oak  or  brick  will  resist  cannon  shot. 

33.  What  thickness  of  ice  will  admit  the  passage  of  in- 
fantry, cavalry,  and  artillery  ? 

Ice  3  inches  thick,  will  bear  infantry  marching  in  file; 
from  4i  to  6h  inches,  cavalry  and  light  artillery ;  and  beyond 
that  the  heaviest  gun  carriages  may  pass  in  safety.  "  Ice 
8  inches  thick  will  bear  nearly  10  cwt.  upon  a  square  foot 
without  danger. 

34.  How  is  the  size  of  a  rope  designated  ? 

By  its  circumference  :  thus,  a  two- inch  rope  is  a  rope  two 
inches  in  circumference. 

35.  How  is  the  strength  of  a  hemp  rope,  or  the  weight  it 
will  support,  ascertained  ? 


118 


HAND-BOOK   OP  ARTILLERY. 


Square  the  circumference  in  inches,  and  divide  by  5,  for 
the  weight  in  tons,  that  it  will  bear  suspended  from  it. 

36.   How  can  the  breadth  of  a  river  be  ascertained  without 
instruments  ? 

As  follows : 

[157 


1st.  The  line  AB  (the  distance  to  be  determined)  is  ex- 
tended upon  the  bank  to  X>,  from  which  point,  after  having 
marked  it,  lay  off  equal  distances  DC  and  Cd ;  produce 
BC  to  6,  making-  Ch=CB ;  then  extend  the  line  dh  until  it 
intersects  the  prolongation  of  the  line  CA  at  a.  The  dis- 
tance ab  is  equal  to  AB  or  the  width  of  the  river. 

2d.  Lay  off  any  convenient  distance,  BC,  perpendicular 
to  AB,  erect  a  perpendicular  DC  to  AC,  note  the  point 
D  where  it  intersects  AB  produced;  measure  BD ;  then 

AB= .* 

BD 
37.    How  can  the  breadth  of  a  river  be  ascertained  by 
the  means  of  the  peak  of  a  cap,  or  cocked  hat  ? 

*The  2d  method  was  suggested  to  ine  by  Captain  Vogdes,  1st  Artillery, 
U.  S.  Army. 


MISCELLANEOUS*  119 

j^gl  Place  yourself  at  the  edge  of  one  bank,  and  lower 
■"  the  peak  of  the  cap,  or  point  of  the  hat  till  the  edge 
cut  the  other  bank,  then  steady  your  head,  by  placing  your 
hand  under  your  chin,  and  turn  gently  around  to  some  level 
spot  of  ground  on  your  own  side  of  the  river,  and  observe 
where  your  peak  or  point  of  your  hat  again  meets  the' 
ground;  measure  this  distance,  which  will  be  nearly  the 
breadth  of  the  river. 

88.  How  do  you  ascertain  the  distance  of  an  object  by 
means  of  the  tangent  scale  of  a  gun,  the  height  of  the  object 
at  the  required  distance  being  known  ? 

Direct  the  line  of  metal  of  the  gun  on  the  top  of  the 
object;  then  raise  the  tangent  slide  till  the  top  of  it  and 
notch  on  the  muzzle  are  in  line  with  the  foot  of  the  object, 
and  note  what  length  of  scale  is  required ;  then,  by  similar 
triangles,  as  the  length  of  the  raised  part  of  the  tangent 
scale  is  to  the  length  of  the  gun,  so  is  the  height  of  the  dis- 
tant object  to  the  distance  required. 

39.  What  composition  may  be  used  for  greasing  the  axle- 
trees  of  artillery  carriages  ? 

Hog's  lard  softened  by  working  it.  If  this  cannot  be  pro- 
cured, tallow  or  other  grease  may  be  used ;  if  hard,  it  should 
be  melted  with  jfish-oil. 

40.  What  is  the  simplest  method  of  bursting  open  strong 
gates  ? 

Suspend  a  bag  of  gunpowder  containing  50  or  60  lbs., 
near  the  middle  of  the  gate,  upon  a  nail  or  gimlet,  having  a 
small  piece  of  port-fire  inserted  at  the  bottom,  and  well  se- 
cured with  twine. 

41.  What  is  the  length  of  a  pendulum  to  vibrate  seconds, 
half  and  quarter  seconds  respectively  ? 

Seconds,  39.1  inches;  half-seconds,  9.8  inches;  and  quar- 
ter-seconds, 2.45  inches. 
-J  f-Q-i       42.  Give  a  formula  for  determining  the  length  of  the 

^  -'  seconds  pendulum  in  any  latitude. 

^-9mmU^^-^^'^^.  f-^^t-O-OSai  COB.  2  lat.] 

43.  How  are  the  times  of  a  single  oscillation  of  two  pen- 
dulums  to  each  other? 

As  the  square  roots  of  their  lengths. 


120  HAND-BOOK    OF   AllTILLERY. 

44.  Repeat  the  table  of  measures. 

10  tenths,  -  -  -  -  -  1  iucb. 

4  inches,  -  -  -  -  -  1  hand. 

32  inches,  -  -  -  -  -  1  foot. 

28  inches,  -  -  -  -  -  1  puce. 

.      3  feet,  -  -  -  ...  1  yard. 

2  yards,  -  -  -  -  -1  fathom. 

220  yards,  »  *    .         -  -  -  1  furlong. 

1760  yards,  -  -  -  -  -  1  mile. 

45.  Repeat  the  table  of  avoirdupois  weight. 
47.34735  grains,  -  -  -  -  -  1  dram. 
16  drams,  -  -  -  -  -  1  ounce. 
16  ounces,  -  -  -  •  -  1  pound. 
28  pounds,  -  -  -  -  -  1  quarter. 
4  qrs.  or  112  lbs.  -  -  -  -  -  1  cwt. 
20  cwt.  -  -  -  -  -  1  ton. 

In  some  of  our  States  the  ton  is  estimated  at  2000  lbs. 

46.  What  is  the  force  of  gravity  ? 

It  is  that  force  of  attraction  exerted  by  the  earth  upon  all 
particles  of  matter  which  tends  to  urge  them  towards  its 
centre. 

47.  What  is  the  specific  gravity  of  a  body  ? 

The  ratio  of  the  weight  of  a  body  to  that  of  an  equal  vol- 
ume of  some  other  body  assumed  as  a  standard,  usually  pure 
distilled  water  at  a  certain  temperature. 

48.  AVhat  is  the  law  of  descent  of  falling  bodies  ? 

The  spaces  fallen  through  from  the  commencement  of  the 
descent  are  proportional  to  the  squares  of  the  times  elapsed. 

49.  What  compositions  are  made  use  of  for  preserv-  rj^Q 
ing  iron  cannon  ?  '■ 

1.  Black  lead,  pulverized,                -            -            -            -  12 

Red  lead, 12 

Litharge,               -            -            -            -            -            -  5 

Lampblack,          -            -             -            -             -            -  5 

Linseed  Oil,          -            -            -             -            -             -  66 

Boil  it  gently  about  twenty  minutes,  during  which  time  it 
must  be  constantly  stirred. 

2.  Umber,  ground,  -----       3.75 

Gum  Shellac,  pulverized,        ....       3.75 

Ivory  black,     ------      3.75 

Litharge,  -.--..       3.75 

Linseed  Oil,    -  -  -       "     -  -  -  78 

Spiiits  cf  turpentine.  -  -        "    -  -      7.25 


mi8Cellanp:ous.  1:21. 

The  oil  must  be  first  boiled  half  an  hour;  the  mixture  is 
then  boiled  24  hours,  poured  off  from  the  sediment,  and  put 
in  jugs,  corked. 

3.  Coal  tar  (of  good  quality),  -  -  -     2  gals. 

Spirits  of  tiirpeutine,  -  -  -  -     1  pint. 

In  applying  lacker,  the  surface  of  the  iron  must  be  first 
cleaned  with  a  scraper  and  a  wire  brush,  if  necessary,  and 
the  lacker  applied  hot,  in  two  thin  coats,  with  a  paint  brush. 
It  is  better  to  do  it  in  summer.  Old  lacker  should  be  re- 
moved with  a  scraper,  or  by  scouring,  and  not  by  heating  the 
guns  or  balls,  by  which  the  metal  is  injured. 

About  5  gallons  of  lacker  are  required  for  100  field-guns 
and  1000  shot ;  about  1  quart  for  a  sea-coast  gun.  Before 
the  lacker  is  applied,  every  particle  of -rust  is  removed  from 
the  gun,  and  the  vent  cleared  out. 

.50.  How  many  gallons  does  a  cubic  foot  contain  ? 

7.48  gallons. 

51.  What  is  the  weight  of  a  gallon  of  distilled  water? 
•jPII       At  the  maximum  density" (39^.83  Fahr.),  the  baro- 

-"   meter  being  at  30  inches,  it  weighs  8.33888  avoirdupois 
pounds,  or  58373  Troy  grains. 

52.  ^Vhat  are  the  different  lengths  of  plummets  for  regu- 
lating the  march  of  infantry  ? 

Common  time,     -    -      99  steps  in  a  minute,  -  -  17.37  inches. 

Quick  time,      -    -     -     110         ^'  "  -  -  11.6 

Double  quick,       -    -     140        "  "  -  -      7.18      " 

53.  How  is  a  plummet  made  ? 

By  means  of  a  musket  ball,  suspended  by  a  silk  string, 
upon  which  the  required  lengths  are  marked ;  the  length  is 
measured  from  the  point  of  suspension  to  the  centre  of  the 
ball. 

54.  Explain  how  to  embark  and  disembark  artillery  and 
its  stores. 

1.  Divide  the  total  quantity  to  be  transported  among  the 
vessels,  and  place  in  each  vessel  every  thing  necessary  for 
the  service  required  at  the  moment  of  disembarkation,  so 
that  there  will  be  no  inconvenience  should  other  vessels  be 
delayed. 

2.  If  a  siege  is  to  be  undertaken,  place  in  each  vessel 
with  each  piece  of  artillery  its  implements,  ammunition,  and 
the  carriages  necessary  to  transport  the  whole  or  a  part ;  the 

G 


122  IIAXD-BOOK    OF   ARTILLERY. 

platforms,  tools,  instruments,  and  materials  for  constructing 
batteries ;  skids,  rollers,  scantling,  and  plank. 

3.  If  a  particular  calibre  of  gun  is  necessary  for  any 
operation,  do  not  place  all  of  one  kind  in  one  vessel,  to  avoid 
being  entirely  deprived  of  them  by  any  accident. 

4.  Dismount  the  carriages,  Ava«ons,  and  limbers,  by  taking' 
off  the  wheels  and  boxes,  and,  if  absolutely  necessary,  the 
axle-trees.  Place  in  the  boxes  the  linch-pins,  washers,  &c., 
with  the  tools  required  for  putting  the  carriage  together  r^Q2 
again.  Number  each  carriage,  and  mark  each  detached  ^ 
article  with  the  nmnber  of  the  carriage  to  which  it  belongs. 

5.  The  contents  of  each  box,  barrel,  or  bundle,  should  be 
marked  distinctly  upon  it.  The  boxes  should  be  made  small 
for  the  convenience  of  handling,  and  have  rope  handles  to 
lift  them  by. 

6.  Place  the  heaviest  articles  below,  beginning  with  the 
shot  and  shells  (empty),  then  the  guns,  platforms,  carriages, 
wagons,  limbers,  ammunition  boxes,  &c.  ;  boxes  of  small 
arms  and  ammunition  in  the  dryest  and  least  exposed  part 
of  the  vessel.  Articles  required  to  be  disembarked  first 
should  be  put  in  last,  or  so  placed  that  they  can  be  readily 
got  at. 

If  the  disembarkation  is  to  be  performed  in  front  of  the 
enemy,  some  of  the  field-pieces  should  be  so  placed  that  they 
can  be  disembarked  immediately,  with  their  carriages,  im- 
plements and  ammunition;  also" the  tools  and  materials  for 
throwing  up  temporary  intrenchments  on  landing. 

7.  Some  vessels  should  be  laden  solely  with  such  powder  and 
ammunition  as  may  not  be  required  for  the  immediate  service 
of  the  pieces. 

8.  On  a  smooth,  sr^ndy  beach,  heavy  pieces,  &c.,  may  be 
landed  by  rolling  them  overboard  as  soon  as  the  boats  gr Jiintl, 
;\nd  hauling  them  up  with  sling-carts. 


163] 

APPENDIX. 


RIFLE  CANNON. 

A  rifle  is  a  firearm  wliicli  has  spiral  grooves  cut  into  the  surface 
of  its  l3ore,  for  the  purpose  of  comiuunicatiug  a  rotary  motion  to  a 
projectile  around  au  axis  coinciding  with  the  direction  of  its  flight. 

The  object  of  this  rotation  is  to  increase  the  range  of  a  projectile, 
by  causing  it  to  move  through  the  air  in  the  direction  of  its  least 
resistance,  and  to  correct  the  cause  of  deviation  by  distributing  it 
uniformly  around  the  line  of  flight. 

Yarious  plans  have  been  tried  to  secure  the  safest  and  surest 
means  of  causing  the  projectile  to  folloAv  the  spiral  grooves  as  it 
passes  along  the  bore  of  a  rifled  piece.  Those  projectiles,  which 
promise  to  be  the  most  successful  for  heavy  guns,  may  be  ranged 
under  two  heads,  viz : 

1st.  Tho.se  Avhich  have  flanges  or  projections  on  them  to  fit  into 
the  gi'ooves  of  the  gun  in  loading. 

The  flanges  are  made  of  softer  metal  than  the  body  of  the  pro- 
jectile. 

Sd.   Those  which  are  constmcted  on  an  expanding   principle. 

The  body  is  generally  made  of  cast  iron ;  and  the  expanding 
jiortion  is  a  bancl  or  cup  of  some  softer  metal,  as  peicter,  copper,  or 
,p.-,  wrougfit  iron,  which  enters  the  bore  of  the  piece  freely  Avhen 
-•  it  is  loaded,  but  which  is  forced  into  the  grooves  by  the  dis- 
charge. 

The  grooves  are  of  different  forms,  determined  by  the  angle  made 
by  the  tangent  line  at  any  point  with  the  corresponding  eltiment  of 
the  bore.  If  the  angles  be  equal  at  all  points,  the  groove  is  said 
to  be  uniform.  If  they  increase  from  the  breech  to  the  muzzle, 
tiie  grooves  are  called  increasing ;  if  the  reverse,  decreasing  grooves. 
The  practical  method  of  cutting  grooves  consists  in  moving  a  rod 
armed  with  a  cutter,  back  and  fortli  in  the  bore,  and  at  the  same 
time  revolving  it  around  its  axis.  If  tlie  velocities  of  translation 
and  rotation  be  both  uniform,  the  grooA-es  will  have  a  uniform 
twist;  if  one  of  the  velocities  be  variable,  the  grooves  avIII  be  either 
increasing  or  decreasing,  depending  on  the  relative  velocities  in  the 
tvvo  directions. 


124  APPENDIX. 

Twist  is  tlic  term  employed  by  gmimakcrs  to  express  the  iucliiia- 
tiou  of  a  o-roove  at  any  point,  and  is  measured  Ijy  the  tantjcnt  of  tLe 
ang-le  vrliicli  the  groove  makes  with  the  axis  of  the  bore;  and  this 
is  alicays  equal  to  the  circumference  of  the  bore  divided  by  the  length 
of  a  single  revolution  of  the  spiral  measured  in  the  direction  of  the 
axis. 

The  most  suitable  inclination  of  grooves  for  a  rifle  cannon  has 
not  yet  been  determined  experimentally ;  and  consequently  a  wide 
diversity  of  twists  is  employed  by  different  experimenters. 

The  following'  table*  presents  a  synopsis  of  the  results  in  case  of 
some  rilie  cannon  tested  at  Fort  Monroe,  Ya.,  in  1859,  by  a  Board 
composed  of  ordnance  and  artillery  oflficers. 

The  following  is  extracted  from  the  report  of  the  Board : 

"  The  method  of  obtaining  rifle  motion  in  these  difi'erent  [165 
guns  is  of  two  kinds : 

"  1.    Flanged  projectiles  entering  into  the  grooves  of  the  gun. 

"  2.  Expanding  projectiles,  which  are  forced  into  the  grooves  by 
the  action  of  the  charge.  Although  the  flanged  projectile,  when 
made  with  great  precision,  has  given  good  results,  as  shown  by  the 
tables  of  firing,  the  extreme  nicety  in  its  fabrication,  and  the  care 
and  trouble  to  load  the  gun,  particularly  when  it  becomes  foul  by 
firing,  seems  to  render  it  not  as  suitable  for  service  as  the  expanding' 
projectile. 

"From  the  results  obtained,  the  conclusion  is  inevitable  that  the. 
era  of  smooth-bore  field  artillery  has  passed  away,  and  that  tlie 
period  of  the  adoption  of  rifle  cannon  tor  siege  and  garrison  service 
cannot  be  remote.  The  superiority  of  elongated  projectiles,  whether 
solid  or  hoUoAV,  -with  the  rifle  rotation,  as  regards  economy  of  am- 
munition, extent  of  range,  and  uniformity  and  accuracy  of  effect, 
over  th(^  present  system,  is  decided  and  unquestionable." 

The  Armstrong  gun,  of  which  so  much  has  been  said,  belongs 
to  the  class  of  breech-loading  rifle-cannon.  Its  projectile  is  made 
of  cast  iron,  surrounded  by  t^vo  leaden  rings,  placed  at  the  extremi- 
ties of  the  cylindrical  part,  for  the  purpose  of  engaging  the  grooves, 
wh(m  it  is  forced  through  the  bore.  The  grejit  range  and  accuracy 
claimed  for  tliis  projectile,  are  probably  derived  from  its  great  lengtli 
compared  with  its  diameter;  but  a  gun  of  great  strength  would  be 
required  to  project  it. 

See  Table,  pagew  IGG,  1(J7. 


126 


APPENDIX. 


166] 


Target  40'  by  20'. 


Calibre. 

Bore. 

ClROOVES. 

N.VJIE. 

u 

T\%T[ST. 

s 

,a 

Width. 

Deptli. 

1 

to 

d 

ft 

^ 

^ 

in. 

in. 

in. 

in. 

Sawyer,     - 

24-pdr. 

5.862 

130 

(i 

1.5 

0.25 

Uniform,  one  turn 
in  34^  feet. 

Dimick, 

32-pdr. 

6.4 

101 

6 

2.0 

0.2 
rectan. 

Increasing  from  0 
to  one  turn  in  62A 
feet  at  muzzle  ; 
twist  to  the  right 

Dr.  Read,  - 

12-pdr.  Siege 

4.854 

109 

l-14th 
circum. 

.03  to  .08 

Increasing  from  0 
at  commencera't 
to  one  turn  in  50 
feet  at  muzzle. 

Do. 

12-pr.  Field 

4.636 

74 

" 

do. 

do. 

Do.           do. 

Do. 

32-pr. 

6.425 

110 

3 

l-6th 
circum. 

.085  to  .12 
circular. 

Uniform,  one  turn 
in  40  feet. 

Do. 

6-pr. 

3.69 

103.4 

3 

do. 

.077  to. Ill 
circular. 

Uniform,  to  the 
right,  one  turn 
in  25  feet. 

Capt.  Dyer, 

3-pr. 

2.9 

44.5 

8 

0.4 

.05 

Uniform,  one  turn 
in  16  feet. 

Do. 

6-pr.  bronze 

3.67 

57.5 

16 

0.5 

.025 

Uniform,  one  tura 
in  19  feet. 

The  following  is  a  description  of  the  several  projectiles,  viz  : 

Sawyer's. — Flanged  projectile ;  elongated;  entire  shell  coated  with  an  alloy 
chiefly  of  lead,  and  has  a  percussion  cap  on  small  end. 

DmiCK'S. —-Expanding  shell ;  elongated ;  cup  of  soft  metal  cast  on  rear  end 
of  projectile. 


APPENDIX. 


12: 


Target  40'  by  20^.— Continued. 


[167 


0 

0 
'0' 

oi 
bo 

0 

i 

1000  Yards. 

2000  Yards. 

CS 

1 

< 

11 

ace 

0 

it 

6 

S  en 

0.2 
<5W 

0 

11 
1 

^3  K 

0    x 

1" 

0  _^. 

lbs. 
8822 

lbs. 
45 

lbs. 
5t 

15 

13 

2 

0     1 
2 

" 

119 

32 

17 

4  30 

6 

4359 

0  / 

13.i 

9300 

51 

6 

7 

5 

1 

2  15 

58 

21 

6 

5 

6i- 

5000 

22 

3 

2G 

14 

9 

2  15 

30 

5 

8 

4  30 

1900 

15 

2 

48 

16 

3 

3 

8500 

50 

6 

10 

8 

2 

2  15 

3 

84 

19 

8 

5 

6i 

3665 

11  30 

1200 

12 

H 

28 

18 

4 

2  10 

52 

9 

5 

4  45 

250 

9 

1 

28 

16 

5 

2  25 

18 

4 

2 

5^ 

7 

3270 

13  30 

880 

14 

U 

22 

11 

4 

.15 

15 


Reed's. — The  body  is  of  cast  iron  and  the  expanding  portion  is  a  cup  of 
wrought  iron,  which  is  fastened  to  the  body  by  inserting  it  in  the 
mould  and  pouring  the  melted  metal  around  it. 

DYER's.—Description  nearly  the  same  as  that  of  Dimick's. 


IZSTDEX 


5-^^  The  pages  refer  to  the  figures  iu  the  margin  of  the  text. 

AIR :   Resistance  of,  148. 

AMMUNITION :  For  field  battery,  41 ;  for  seige  train,  37-8 ;  sto- 
rage 103-4:  preparation,  93-4,  100-1-2 ;  weights  of  fixed,  107. 

ANGLE  :  Of  greatest  range,  66 ;  of  fall,  74  ,  of  least  elevation  for 
mortars,  67;  of  elevation  for  stone-mortars,  67 — Natural  angle  of 
sight,  12;  of  guns,  26;  of  howitzers,  29;  of  columbiads,  30. 

ANIMAL  POWER,  152. 

ARC,  elevating,  18. 

AREA  of  a  circle,  154. 

ARMSTRONG  GUN,  165. 

ARTIFICIAL  LINE  OF  SIGHT,  53. 

ARTILLERY:  Definition,  9 — Method  of  embarking  and  disem- 
barking, 161-2 — Carriages  (see  carriages) — Kinds  of,  9;  how- 
distinguished,  9 — Proportion  of,  to  Infantry,  40 — Proportion  of 
different  kinds  in  a  field  train,  40 ;  in  seige  train,  36 ;  for  moun- 
tain service,  42;  for  armament  of  forts,  35 — How  rendered  un- 
serviceable, 20-1. 

ASTRAGAL  AND  FILLETS;  Definition,  13. 

ATTACK  of  a  post,  150. 

AVOIRDUPOIS  WEIGHT,  159. 

AXIS  OF  A  PIECE :  Definition,  12. 

BALLS :  Diameters  and  weights,  105-6 ;  computation  of  weight 
and  diameter,  95;  piling,  103;  number  in  a  pile,  104-5;  fire,  92; 
light,  92 ;  smoke,  93 ;  penetration,  149-50. 

BARBETTE  CARRIAGE:  Kinds,  132— Parts  composing  133— 
Description,  133-4. 

BARRELS:  For  gunpowder,  marking,  88;  piling,  88;  transpor- 
tation, 89. 

BATTERY:  Definition  of,  11— Of  field  artillery,  composition,  41 ; 
tactics,  44-5-6-7-8-9,  50 — Mountain  Artillery,  42 — Ammunition 
for  field  battery,  41. 

BATTERY-WAGON,  143-4. 

BEDS,  mortar:  Weights,  33 — Trunnion  beds,  129 — Siege  mortar, 
130-1— Coehcrn,  131— Eprouyette,  131— Heavy  sea-coast,  131-2, 


130  INDEX. 

BASE-RING:   Defiuitiou,  13. 

BASE  OF  THE  BREECH :   Defiuition  of,  13. 

BOARD,  Pointing,  58. 

BORE  :    Definition,  14 ;  Lottom  of,  15. 

BORMANN  FUZE,  112-13. 

BRASS  CANNON :   External  injury,  23. 

BREADTH  of  a  river  ascertained,  157-8. 

BREACHING:  Battery,  best  jDOsition  for,  38;  manner  of,  38-9; 
time  required,  39. 

BREECH:  Definition,  13— Sights,  16;  how  used,  53;  construc- 
tion, 17 ;  pieces  supplied  with,  17. 

BRONZE:  Objections  to,  for  cannon,  10;  Avhy  used  for  field 
pieces,  10;  kinds  of  bronze  pieces  used,  11. 

BURNING  gunpowder :    Quickness  of,  87. 

BURSTING  OPEN  gates,  158. 

BUSHING  a  piece,  20 ;  metal  used  for,  in  bronze  pieces,  20 ;  ob- 
ject of,  20 ;  all  noAv  artillery  not  bushed,  20. 

CAISSON :  Description  of,  142-3 ;  number  with  a  field  battery,  41. 

CAKING  of  powder  prevented,  89. 

CALIBRE  :  Definition,  12 ;  number  in  a  piece  ascertained,  12. 

CANISTERS,  91 :  For  field  service,  how  made,  94 ;  for  seige  and 
sea-coast  service,  how  made,  95 — How  piled,  104. 

CANNON:  Bore,  12 — Brass,  external  and  internal  injuries,  23— 
Dimensions,  how  regulated,  11 — For  siege  train,  36 — Iron,  inju- 
ries, 24 — preseiwation  of,  25  ;  service  of,  how  judged,  24 — How 
marked,  21-2 — Condemned  cannon,  how  marked,  22 — Proof  of, 
22— Kinds,  9— Length  of,  27-8,  30,  33— Rifle  cannon,  163-7. 

CARCASSES,  92. 

CARRIAGES:  Classification,  123— Movable,  123;  field  gun, 
125-6;  mountain  artillery,  127;  prairie,  127;  limbers,  126-9; 
siege  gun,  128— Stationary,  129-30;  barbette,  132-3-4;  case- 
mate, 138-9;  columbiad,  136-7;  flank-casemate,  140— Mortar 
beds,  131 — Wrought  iron,  141-2— Number  in  a  field  battery,  41. 

CARTRIDGE-BAGS:   Where  filled,  89. 

CARTRIDGES :   For  hot  shot,  97. 

CASCABLE,  13. 

CASEMATE  :    Carriage,  138-9— Gin,  146. 

CHAMBER :  Definition,  14 ;  object  of,  32 ;  form  for  mortars,  32 ; 
for  howitzers,  28 ;  for  eprouvette,  32 ;  gomer,  32. 

CHARGES :  Definition,  60— For  breeching,  60— For  double  shot, 
60— For  field  guns  and  howitzers,  62— For  fire-balls,  61— For 
heavy  guns,  columbiads  and  hoAvitzers,  62 — Service  charge  for 
heavy  guns,  60 — For  hot  shot,  60 — Greatest  charges  for  mortars, 
62— For  mortars,  how  regulated,  61— For  ricochet  fii'ing,  60— For 
shells  fired  from  columbiads  and  heavy  guns,  108— For  field 
shells,  108— For  mortar  shells,  107— For  Bphericahcase  shot,  108, 


INDEX.  131 

CHASE,  Definition,  13. 

CHASSIS :  For  barbette  carriage,  134-5— For  casemate,  carriage, 
139-40 — For  columbiad,  138 — For  flank-casemate,  141 — For 
wrought  iron  carriage,  142. 

CHEEKS,  124. 

COEHORN  MORTAR:  Diameter,  33— Weight  of  bed,  33— 
Length  of,  33 — Length  of  bore,  33 — Length  of  chamber,  33 — 
Use,  34 — Greatest  charge  for,  62 — Bed,  description  of,  131. 

COLUMBIADS:  Definition,  30— Windage,  82— Charges,  62— 
Chamber,  30— Peculiarities,  30— Weights,  30— Length,  30— Na- 
tural angle  of  sight,  30 — Gun  carriage,  136-7;  chassis,  137-8 — 
Shells,  charges  for,  108 ;    method  of  loading,  102. 

COMPOSITION,  for  preserving  iron  pieces,  160;  application,  160; 
for  axle-trees  of  carriages,  158. 

CONDEMNED  cannon,  hoAv  marked,  22;  shot,  how  marked,  102. 

CONTENT :  Of  a  barrel,  155  ;  box,  155 ;  conic  frustum,  154 ;  go- 
mer  chamber,  155 ;  spherical  segment,  155 ;  cyUnder,  155. 

DAY'S  MARCH :   Of  field  artiUerj,  153. 

DEFILADE :    Definition,  156. 

DEPTH  OF  PENETRATION  of  balls,  149-50. 

DESCENT  of  falling  bodies :   Law  of,  159. 

DIAMETER :  Of  coehorn  mortar,  33 ;  of  eprouvette,  33 ;  of  stone- 
mortar,  33 ;  of  cast-iron  shot,  how  found,  95 ;  of  shot,  shells,  and 
spherical  case,  105 ;  of  vent,  16. 

DIMENSIONS:  Of  cannon,  how  regulated,  11;  of  a  parapet  to 
resist  field  artillery,  156. 

DIPPING  OF  THE  MUZZLE,  77-8. 

DISCHARGES :   Number  an  iron  gun  can  sustain,  39. 

DISH,  of  a  wheel,  124. 

DIRECTION,  how  given:  To  guns  and  howitzers,  51-2;  to  mor- 
tars, 56-8 — At  night,  55,  59 — When  wheels  are  not  on  same 
level,  54. 

DISTANCE :  For  firing  field  pieces,  46 — Ascertained  by  sound, 
151 — Determined  by  a  tangent  scale,  158 — Of  recoil,  77 — Of 
ricochet  battery  from  object,  74. 

DISPART:   Definition,  13. 

DOLPHINS :   Definition,  19 ;  pieces  furnished  with,  19. 

DRIVING  OUT  shot  wedged  in  the  bore,  21. 

ELEVATION :  Necessity  for,  51 — How  given  to  guns  and  howit- 
zers, 52 ;  to  mortars,  56 ;  instruments  for,  52 — Angle  of,  for  mor- 
tars, 67 ;  greatest  angle  in  vacuo,  66 :  angle  of  for  ricochet  fire,  74. 

ELEVATING  ARC,  18. 

EMBARKING  Artilleiy  and  its  stores,  161-2. 

ENFILADE :   Definition,  156. 

ENFILADING  a  work,  73-4-5— Object  to  be  fired  at,  73. 


132  INDEX. 

EPEOUVETTE,  11 ;  form  of  cliamber,  32— Calibre,  33— T ''se  of, 

34— Bed,  33,  131- Leuo-th  of  bore,  33. 
EXPANSION  of  hot  shot,  9G. 
EXTERNAL  injuiy  to  cannon,  23-4. 

PACE  of  the  piece:  Definition  of,  14. 

FALL:  Point  of,  73— Angle  of,  74. 

FALLING  BODIES,  law  of  descent,  159. 

FIELD  ARTILLERY :  Charges  for,  62— Kinds,  40— Tactics,  44-9, 
50. 

FIELD  BATTERY:  Number  of  pieces,  40— Battery  of  horse  ar- 
tillery, 41 — Composition  of,  on  a  Avar  establishment,  41 — Compo- 
sition of  mountain  howitzer  battery,  42 — Ammunition,  41 — 
Draught  hor.ses,  42. 

FIELD  GL^N,  how  mounted,  44— Charges  for,  62. 

FIELD  CARRIAGES:  Kinds  of,  125- Description,  125-6. 

FIELD  AND  SIEGE  GIN,  146. 

FIELD  SHELLS:  Loading,  100- Charges,  108. 

FIELD-PARK,  42;  quantity  of  supplies  for,  42;  carriages,  43. 

FILLING:  Mortar  shells,  101 ;  columbiad  shells,  &c.,  102. 

FIRE  BALLS:  Definition,  92— Charges,  61— How  preserved,  104. 

FIRING :  Field  pieces,  46-7-8 — Rapidity  of,  for  mortars,  34 ;  for 
field  pieces,  46 — Within  point  blank  range,  rale  for,  52 — At  night 
with  guns  and  howitzers,  55;  with  mortars,  59 — Mode  of  facili- 
tating firing  for  any  given  distance,  54 ;  use  of  remarkable  points 
on  the  ground,  55 — Ricochet  firing,  73 — Effect  of  firing  upwards 
under  a  large  angle,  65. 

FIXED  AMMUNITION:  Storing,  103-4— Weights  of,  107. 

FLIGHT  OF  PROJECTILES:  Time  of,  149. 

FLANK-CASEMATE  carriage,  140-41. 

FOOT,  number  of  gallons  in  a  cubic,  160. 

FOOT  SOLDIER,  space  occupied  bv,  in  ranks,  153. 

FORGE,  143— Portable,  144— Number  with  a  field  battery,  41 ; 
with  field-park,  43. 

FORCES  acting  on  a  projectile,  51. 

FORCE  of  gravity,  159. 

FRICTION  PRIMER:  Description,  115;  advantages  of,  116. 

FURNACES  for  hot  shot,  97. 

FUZES :  Definition,  109— Wooden,  109-10— Paper, 111— Borraann, 
112-13 — U.  S.  sea-coast,  114 — Composition  for  mortar  fuzes,  110; 
for  paper  fuzes.  111. 

GINS:  Field  and  siege,  146;  garrison,  146;  casemate,  146. 
GO^MER  CHAMBER,  32. 
GRAPE  SHOT,  91 ;  weight  of,  107. 
GRATES  for  heating  shot,  98. 


INDEX.  133 

GKAVITY:  Specific,  159— Force  of,  159. 

GREASE  for  wheels,  158. 

GROOVES  for  rifle  cannon,  163-4. 

GRENADES,  91 — Angle  of  elevation  for,  wlien  thrown  from  stone- 
mortars,  67. 

GROMMETS,  99. 

GUNS:  Definition,  26— Leng-tbs,  27— Weights,  27— Proof,  22— 
Ranges,  68-9,  70-1-2 — Nomenclature,  13,  14, 15— rPrincipal  parts 
of,  26 — Projectiles  nsecl  v.'ith,  27 — Hoav  mounted,  26 — Natural 
angle  of  sight  of,  26. 

GUN  METAL:  Bronze,  9,  10— Cast  iron,  9,  10. 

GUNNERS'  IMPLEMENTS:  Level,  18- Quadi'ant,  18— How 
used,  52-3. 

GUN-CARRIAGES:  Field,  125-6;  siege,  128;  barbette,  132-4; 
casemate,  138-9;  flank-casemate,  140;  moimtain  howitzer,  127 ; 
wrought  iron,  141 ;  prairie,  127-8 — Columbiad,  136-7. 

GUNPOWDER :  Materials,  83— Proportions.  83— Manufacture, 
84 — Qualities  of,  87 — Packing,  87-8 — Proving,  86 — Expansive 
velocity  and  pressure,  87 — Hvgrometric  proof,  87 — Relative 
quickness,  87 — Preservation  and  storage,  88-9 — Transportation, 
89. 

HAND-CART,  145. 

HAND  SLING-CART,  145-6. 

HAUSSE :  Pendulum,  17. 

HAY:  Weight  of,  154. 

HORSES :  Number  required  for  a  field  battery,  42 ;  for  siege  train, 
37 — Power  of,  152 — Space  occupied  bj,  152 — Number  required 
for  siege  gun,  129 — "Weight,  152. 

HORSE  ARTILLERY:  Peculiar  advantages  of,  43. 

HOT  SHOT,  97-8— Loading  with,  97— Expansion  of,  96. 

H0WITZP:RS  :  Definition,  28— Kinds  of,  and  weights,  29— Lengths, 
28-9 — Number  in  field  battery,  41 ;  in  siege  train,  36 — Chamber, 
form  of,  28 — Advantages  of,  28 — Projectiles  used  witli,  28 — Natu- 
ral angle  of  sight  of,  29 — Charges  for,  62 — Pointing,  5i. 

ICE :  Strength  of,  156. 

IMPLEMENTS:    Quadrant,    18;    breech    sight,    16;    pendulum 

hausse,  17;  gunner's  p^^rpendicular,  18;  pointing  stakes,  57-8; 

pointing  wires,  56;  plummet,  18,  58;  pointing  cord,  57. 
INCENDIARY  COMPOSITION,  117. 
INJURIES  to  cannon,  23. 
IRON  pn'fvrrcd  to  bronze.  10. 
IRON  CANNON  used  in  land  service,  10,  11. 

JUNK- WADS,  99. 


134  INDEX. 

KNOB  of  cascable,  K5;  use  of,  39. 

LACQUER,  for  iron  guns,  160. 

LENGTH  of  cannon:  Definition  of,  11— Extreme  length,  12. 

LINE,  Of  lire,  64 — Of  metal,  12;  how  directed,  52-3;  not  perma- 
nent, 54 — Artificial  line  of  sight,  53. 

LIGHT  BALLS,  92. 

LIMBERS:  For  field  carriages,  126;  for  siege  caniages,  129. 

LOADING  :  With  hot  shot,  97— Field  shells,  lUO— Spherical  case, 
101-2 — Mortar  shells,  101-2 — Shells  for  colnmhiads  and  other 
heavy  guns,  102. 

MAGAZINES:  Moisture  of,  how  absorbed,  89 ;  powder  stored  in, 
88 ;  precautious  to  be  observed  when  open,  89. 

MARKING  :  Cannon,  21-2 ;  condemned  shot  and  shell,  102 ;  pow- 
der barrels,  88. 

MARCHES:  Horse-artillery,  field-artillery,  cavahy,  and  infantry, 
153. 

MATCH:  Quick,  116;  slow,  116. 

METALS  ibr  artillery,  9. 

MOMENTUM,  151. 

MORTAR-WAGON,  145. 

MORTARS,  31— Advantages  of,  31— Lengths  and  weights,  33— 
Kinds,  11 — Beds,  weights  of,  33 — Platform,  121 — Form  of  cham- 
ber, 32 — Length  of  chamber  and  of  bore,  33 — Kinds  of  projectiles 
used  Avith,  34 — Rapidity  of  fire  of  siege  mortnrs,  34 — Poinling, 
56,  58 ;  Greatest  charges  for,  62 — Angles  of  elevation  for,  66-7 — 
Siege  mortar  beds,  13(J-1 — Coehorn  mortar  bed,  131 — Eprouvette 
bed,  13J — Sea-coast  mortar  bed,  132. 

MOUNTAIN  artillery:  Dimension  and  Aveights  of,  29 — Composi- 
tion of  a  batterv,  42 — Ranges,  69. 

MULES:  Strcngtli  of,  ir,'2. 

MUZZLE:  Dellnition,  1.5— Sight,  17. 

NATI^RAL  ANGLE  of  sight,  12. 

NECK:  Dcfiniti.m,  14. 

NOMENCLATURE  of  a  pioce,  13,  14,  15. 

NIGHT  firing:  Witli  guns  and  hoAvitzers,  55;  with  mortars,  .59. 

OATS:  A^'eigbt  of,  151. 

PACK  horses,  152. 

PENDULITM-HAUSSE,  17. 

PP:NDUL1'MS:  Length  of,  1.58. 

PENETRATION  of  balls:  In  masonrv,  150;  in  e.arth,  150. 

PERPENDICULAR,  tnnni.'r's.  IS. 


INDEX*  1-35 

PILING:  Balls,  103— Canisters,  104— Loaded  shells,  104— Pow- 
der-barrels, 88 — Number  of  shot  in  a  pile,  104-5. 

PLATFORMS,  118— Siege,  119-20— Mortar,  121— Rail,  121— Ri- 
cochet, 122. 

PLUMMET :  For  mortar  service,  18,  58 — For  regulating  march  of 
infantry,  161. 

POINT-BLANK  RANGE,  63-4— Causes  which  vary  it,  64— 
Effect  on  it  of  firing  upwards  under  a  large  angle,  65. 

POINTING :  Guns  and  howitzers,  51— Mortars,  56— hStakes,  57-8 
— Wires,  56 — Cord,  57 — Board,  58. 

PORT  FIRES,  114— Composition  for,  115. 

POINT  of  fall,  73-4. 

PRAIRIE   CARRIAGE,  127-8. 

PREPONDERANCE:  Definition,  19— Whv  given,  19. 

PRIMERS:  Friction,  115. 

PRIMING-TUBES,  115. 

PRESERVATION:  Of  cannon,  25— Fixed  ammunition,  103-4— 
Balls,  102— Grape  and  canister,  10.3— Fire  balls,  104. 

PROJECTILES:  Solid  shot,  90— Shell,  90— Spherical  case,  90— 
Canister,  91 — Grape,  91 — Grenades,  91 — Carcasses,  92 — Fire- 
balls, 92— Light-balls,  92— Smoke-balls,  93— Hot  shot,  97-8— 
Forces  acting  on,  when  fired  from  a  piece,  51 — Kind  used  with 
field  pieces,  and  distance  at  which  they  should  be  employed,  46, 

QUADRANT,  gunners :  How  used,  52-3. 

QUARTER  SIGHTS,  18. 

QUICK  MATCH,  116— How  set  fire  to,  117. 

RANGES:  Definition,  6.3— Point-blank,  63— British  point-blank, 
63 — Causes  which  vary  point-blank,  64 — ExtreuK?  range,  66 — ' 
Angle  of  greatest  range  in  vacuo,  Gii — Tables  of,  68-0,  70-1-2 — ' 
How  ascertained,  149. 

RATE  OF  MARCH  of  horse-artillery,  cavalry,  and  infcntry,  153. 

RECOIL :  Definilion,  77 — Cause  of,  77 — Amount,  77 — Has  no 
apprccial)le  effect  on  flight  of  projectile, 78 — Influence  of  position 
of  axis  of  trunnions  on.  78-9. 

RE-INFORCE,  13— Band,  13. 

RESISTANCE  OF  AIR  to  projectiles,  147-8. 

RICOCHET:  Definition,  7;'»— Object  of,  73— How  conducted, 
74-5 — Advantages  of,  73 — Nature  of,  75 — Charges  for  ^fattened 
ricochet,  76 ;  k)xcurvnte(J,'7Q — Tables  of  ricochet  tiring,  76 — Pieces 
best  adapted  for,  7.5 — Distance  from  object  of  ricochet  battery,  74 — 
Greatest  angle  of  elevation  for  ricochet  firing,  74. 

RIFLE-CANNON:  Experiments  at  Fort  Monroe,  166-7 — Arm- 
strong gim,  165. 

RTMBASES,  ]4. 


136  INDEX. 

RING  WADS,  94. 

EIVERS:  Breadth,  156-7. 
EOPES  :  size  and  strength  of,  156. 

SABOTS :  Dificrence  in,  for  field  service,  93 — Arrangement  for 
field-guns  and  12-pdr.  field-howitzer,  93;  in  24  and  3*2-pdr.  field- 
hoAvitzers,  93 — Mode  of  fastening  sabots  to  projectiles  for  field- 
service,  93-4 ;  for  heavy  shells,  94;  for  canisters,  94-5  ;  for  grape- 
shot,  95. 

SEA-COAST  PIECES,  how  mounted,  35— Number  and  kind  re- 
quired for  sea-board  forts,  35 — Heavy  sea-coast  mortar-bed,  131-2. 

SCALING  a  piece,  21. 

SHOT :  Solid,  90— Hollow,  90— Rule  for  finding  weights  and  dia- 
meters of  cast-iron  shot,  95 — Condemned  shot,  how  marked,  102 
— Piling,  103-4 — Preservation,  102-3 — Forces  acting  on  a  shot, 
51 — Penetration,  149-50 — Time  required  to  heat,  97-8 — Expan- 
sion of  by  heat,  96 — Ranges  of,  68-72 — Method  of  driving  oiit 
shot  Avedged  in  the  bore,  21 — Velocity  of,  147. 

SHELLS,  90 ;  Dimensions  and  weights,  106-7 — Mode  of  computing 
weigiit  of,  95 — Quantity  of  i30Avder  to  fill,  96 — Strapping,  93 — 
Loading,  100-1-2 — Ranges,  68-72 — Condemned,  how  marked, 
102— Velocity,  147. 

SIGHTS  of  a.  piece:  Definition,  12— How  determined,  12— Quar- 
ter, 16. 

SIEGE  ARTILLERY :  Kinds,  36— Proportions  in  a  siege  train, 
36;  of  carriages,  36-7;  draught  horses,  37;  projectiles  and  am- 
munition, 37-8 — Siege  mortar-beds,  130-1. 

SLING-CART :  Hand,  140. 

SLOW  MATCH,  116. 

SMOKE  BALLS,  93. 

SOUND:  Velocitv,  151 — Distance  determined  by,  151. 

SPECIFIC  GRAVITY,  159. 

SPHERICAL  CASE,  90— Loading,  100-1. 

SPIKING  cannon,  20. 

STAKES,  pointing:  How  planted,  57-8. 

STONE  MORTAR:  Lengtb,33— Weight, 33— Calibre, 33— Length 
of  bore,  33 — Length  of  chamber,  33 — Use  of,  34 — Stones,  how 
disposed,  34. 

STORING  of  fixed  ammunition,  103-4. 

STRAPPING  SHOT  and  shells,  93-4. 

STRENGTH  :  Of  ice,  156— Of  rope,  156. 

SWELL  of  the  muzzle,  14. 

TABLES:  Of  charges,  02- Of  ranges,  68-9,  70-1-2— Of  wind- 
age, 8J-2 — Of  weights  of  projectiles,  106-7 — Of  measures,  159 — 
Of  avoirdupois  weight,  159. 


rsTDEX.  137 

TACTICS  of  field  artillery,  44-5-6-7-8-0-50.. 

TANGENT  SCALE,  16. 

TIME  OF  FLIGHT  for  siege-mortars,  67— How  found,  149. 

TRAJECTORY,  64. 

TRANSPORTATION:  Of  artillery  ])y  sea,  161-2— Of  siege-guns, 
129. 

TRAVERSE  circles,  135. 

TRIINNIOXS:  Definition,  14— Use,  19— Position  in  mortars,  Si- 
Beds,  129. 

TRUE  WINDAGE :  Definition,  15. 

UNSPIKING  cannon,  21. 

VALENCIENNES  composition,  117. 

VELOCITY:  Of  balls,  147— Loss  of,  by  resistance  of  air,  147— 

Of  sound,  151 — Loss  of,  by  windage,  81. 
VENT :  Dcfmition,  15— Position  and  diameter  of,  16. 
VERTICAL  FIRE,  31. 

WADS:  Grommet,  99— Junk,  99— Hay,  for  firing  hot-shot,  98. 

WATER:  Weight  of,  161 — Allowance  for  a  man  and  a  horse,  154. 

WEIGHTS :  Guus,  27— Columbiads,  30— Howitzers,  29— Mortars, 
33 — Projectiles,  106-7 — Of  wheels  for  field  canMages,  144;  and 
for  siege  caniages,  144 — Proportion  between  weights  of  shot,  95 — 
Of  cast-iron  shot  or  shell,  how  determiued,  95 — Quantity  of  pow- 
der to  fill  a  shell,  how  found,  96 — Carried  by  horses,  152 — Car- 
ried by  an  infantry  soldier,  154. 

WHEELS :  Field  carriage,  size  and  weight,  144 — Siege  carriage^ 
size  and  weight,  144 — Parts  of,  124. 

WINDAGE  :  Definition,  80— Amount,  81-2— Loss  of  velocity  by, 
81 — Advantage  of  a  reduction  of,  81 . 

WIRES,  pointing,  56. 


